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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    When Nothing Else Sounds Good, I Make One of These Pasta Dinners

    By Emmeline Kemperyd updated October 28, 2025 · Published November 3, 2025 · Leave a Comment

    When nothing sounds good, pasta always does. It's the kind of comfort food that never disappoints-simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you're in the mood for something creamy, cheesy, or packed with veggies, there's a pasta dish here that'll hit the spot.

    These are the recipes I reach for when I don't feel like deciding what's for dinner but still want something that feels a little special. From cozy casseroles to quick skillet pastas, each one comes together easily and delivers big on flavor. Because sometimes, the best dinners are the ones that don't ask much from you-just a fork and an appetite.

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    Smoked Salmon & Spinach Pasta

    Salmon spinach pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This quick pasta dish is packed with the flavors of smoked salmon and lemon, making it a go-to meal when you're not sure what to eat. It's simple to prepare and perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. You'll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.

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    Cheesy Steak Pasta Casserole

    Steak pasta casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish features a creamy steak and mushroom pasta paired with a cheesy casserole. It's a comforting and classy dinner that you can whip up in just 45 minutes. Using an oven-safe skillet means you can prepare everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

    Get the recipe

    Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts

    15-Minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts
    Photo credit: always use butter

    Sometimes, a simple meal is just what you need, and this 15-minute Cherry Tomato Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts fits the bill perfectly. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying choice. Adding a nice piece of mozzarella or burrata cheese on top takes it to another level.

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    Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

    Chicken pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features plenty of chicken and broccoli, creating a hearty meal that will definitely fill you up. It's perfect for when you're not sure what to eat but want something satisfying. Plus, you'll likely have some leftovers to enjoy later.

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    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken

    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken
    Photo credit: Always use butter

    Sundried Tomato Pasta with Chicken is a quick and tasty meal that you can whip up in just 20 minutes. The creamy sauce is rich with flavors from crème fraîche, sun-dried tomatoes, and a mix of dried herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Gorgonzola Tortellini Casserole

    Gorgonzola tortellini casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This tortellini casserole is perfect for anyone who loves cheese and pasta. It combines two kinds of cheese, adds a nice tang from Gorgonzola, and includes a satisfying crunch from walnuts. Ready in under 40 minutes, it's a simple and quick meal option.

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    Lemon Ricotta Pasta

    Lemon ricotta pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This pasta dish is incredibly easy to whip up. It's perfect for when you're not sure what to eat or just want something quick and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It's a great option for busy evenings or when you're craving something comforting.

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    Spicy Vodka Pasta

    spicy vodka pasta.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This version of Vodka Pasta is packed with spice and creaminess, delivering a burst of flavor that everyone will enjoy. It's a great option when you're not sure what to eat, and the best part is you can make it without any vodka at all. Perfect for a quick meal that satisfies your cravings.

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    No-Boil Ravioli Casserole

    This cheesy ravioli casserole is one of the simplest dishes you can make. With just four simple ingredients and store-bought shortcuts, you can prep this dish in 5 minutes, and eat in under 40!
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish is incredibly easy to prepare. With only four basic ingredients and some ready-made options, you can have it ready in just 5 minutes and on the table in under 40. It's perfect for those days when you want something quick and satisfying.

    Get the recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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