Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta dishes! Parmesan cheese is the star of the show in these 20 mouth-watering recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, we’ve got it all covered.
Start with our Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti, a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Or try our Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta for a rich and indulgent treat. And if you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, our Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Basil is a bright and refreshing option.
Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to delight. So go ahead, get creative, and let the cheesy goodness begin!
Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
This classic spaghetti dish gets a boost from the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, making it a perfect comfort food option for any day.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the grated parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and garlic-parmesan sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This classic recipe combines the flavors of parmesan cheese, garlic, and heavy cream to create a mouthwatering sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Basil
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines the zesty sweetness of lemon, the richness of parmesan cheese, and the freshness of basil.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
- Add lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Pour cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to combine with the lemon-parmesan sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Stir in chopped basil leaves (if using). Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta Primavera
This colorful and flavorful pasta dish celebrates the fresh flavors of spring with a medley of sautéed vegetables, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Parmesan Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, parmesan, and jumbo shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of Parmesan cheese with the sweetness of roasted tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss tomato halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted tomatoes, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Toss over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with tomato-Parmesan sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake
A classic Italian-American comfort food, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with the simplicity of pasta and a creamy bechamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. In a large skillet, sauté the coated chicken in a little oil until cooked through.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and bechamel sauce. Stir to combine.
7. Arrange the cooked chicken on top of the pasta mixture.
8. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
Combine butter and flour in a saucepan, whisking to combine. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Parmesan Pesto Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese and basil pesto with the comfort of cooked spaghetti, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Parmesan Pasta with Broccoli
Quickly cook pasta, broccoli, and a creamy sauce all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add broccoli to the pot and cook until tender (3-5 minutes).
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and broccoli. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Truffle Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe featuring the earthy flavors of truffles and the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese. This decadent dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and truffle oil. Whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to coat. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Mushrooms and Thyme
This comforting pasta dish combines the earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms, the brightness of fresh thyme, and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in thyme leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp Scampi Parmesan Pasta
Shrimp Scampi Parmesan Pasta Recipe
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the creaminess of parmesan cheese and the comfort of pasta, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine
– 1/4 cup (60ml) butter
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add white wine to the skillet and cook until reduced by half.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and combined with the sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta Carbonara
A rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that combines spaghetti, bacon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. This classic recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
5. Add the cooked bacon to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes with the comfort of pasta, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to distribute evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Asparagus and Peas
This Parmesan pasta dish is a vibrant celebration of spring’s fresh flavors, featuring tender asparagus and sweet peas alongside a rich parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in frozen peas and cook until thawed and heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese with reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and Parmesan sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Crispy Bacon
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add cooked spaghetti, tossing to combine with garlic and oils.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Zucchini Ribbons
A light and refreshing summer pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 medium zucchini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, create zucchini ribbons. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the Parmesan sauce.
6. Top the pasta with zucchini ribbons and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese with the brightness of lemon and a hint of butter, creating a simple yet impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. grated lemon zest
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice, zest, and reserved pasta water. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and lemon butter sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a satisfying pasta bowl.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat until melted and smooth.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the pasta bowl with the parmesan sauce.
6. Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Pasta with Garlic Butter Shrimp
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the savory flavors of garlic butter shrimp with the comforting warmth of parmesan cheese. A perfect comfort food recipe for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic butter shrimp mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious Parmesan pasta recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti and Creamy Parmesan Alfredo Pasta to more adventurous options like Lemon Parmesan Pasta with Basil and Shrimp Scampi Parmesan Pasta, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and become new family favorites. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese transport you to a world of pasta perfection!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
