15 Pasta Dishes That Will Leave You With Leftovers
Let’s get your fridge stocked with leftovers! Not just any leftovers, the best kind of leftover there is; pasta. Leftover pasta is amazing because it’s one of those dishes that tastes just as good as the day (or couple days) before. It’s also awesome comfort food, extremely versatile, and can be reheated in the microwave. It’s literally the perfect dish. But in case you need some convincing or ideas, here are some pasta dishes that will leave you with tons of leftovers.
1. Baked Ziti:
For a classic pasta bake that always can feed an army, go for Baked Ziti. This pasta dish is at its best when it’s made in a giant casserole dish with generous heapings of mozzarella, tomato sauce, and ground meat. Even though you probably don’t have a whole army over, this one casserole dish will feed your family with tons of delicious leftovers.
2. Classic Fettuccine Alfredo:
I’m just going to say it. Almost nothing is better than classic fettuccine alfredo. When it comes to comfort foods this pasta dish takes the cake. The cream sauce and mountains of cheese would make almost anyone smile and believe in food heaven. Even with just one box of fettuccine pasta, this hearty noodle will leave you with leftovers for days.
3. Sweedish Meatballs and Pasta:
Meatballs, of course, are the perfect addition to most pasta dishes. But I feel like a lot of people forget about the delectable dish that is Swedish meatballs. Hearty and filling meatballs paired with a dark but slightly sweet gravy make for the perfect pasta topper. If all of the pasta won’t fill you up, the meatballs certainly will.
4. Taco Pasta:
One of the best mashups would have to be the flavors you find in a taco mixed with delicious pasta. I feel like taco mixins are the perfect canvas for any mashup, whether it be pizza, sandwiches, or of course, pasta. The best of both dishes will have you feeling satisfied in no time, which means more leftovers.
5. Garlic Parmesan Noodles:
If you’re looking for a lighter pasta that will still leave your plastic containers heaping even after the first meal, then try out these Garlic Parmesan noodles. Garlic parmesan is another one of those flavor combos that just screams warm, comfort food. Add a creamy sauce to this pasta and you’ll be in business.
6. Classic Chicken Parmesan:
What’s better than classic chicken parm? This dish is beyond tried and true; for good reason, of course. Chicken is the perfect protein to go with spaghetti, red sauce, and also tons of cheese. With large chicken breasts accompanying your entree, you’ll be able to make this dish stretch for a couple days in your fridge.
7. Carbonara Pasta:
Who doesn’t love bacon? Bacon goes with everything; especially pasta. Carbonara pasta is favorite among many, which is a good thing too because this pasta dish will feed your whole family or just you for days. Make sure to add some extra parmesan cheese to the top for an extra level of deliciousness.
8. Classic Italian Pasta Salad:
If you’re looking for a side dish that will last you for a long time in your fridge and that would go with many different meals, look no further than the classic Italian pasta salad. Chock full of pepperoni, olives, cheese, tomatoes, delicious dressing and pasta, this pasta salad is more than capable of being the star of your meal. You could even eat this pasta salad for lunch by itself; it’s just that good.
9. Macaroni Salad:
If you are having hot dogs or burgers for dinner then you have to be having macaroni salad as the side dish, too. I mean this side dish pasta was made to accompany grilled meats. That doesn’t mean it’s not going to be amazingly delicious on its own. Get ready to have a side dish that your whole family will talk about for days.
10. Mac and Cheese:
There can not be a list of delicious pasta dishes that’ll leave you with leftovers without mac and cheese gracing the list. Cheesy, gooey, and reminiscent of childhood and lazy weekends. Need I say more?
11. Penne Alla Vodka:
You will never go wrong with this Italian classic. Penne Alla Vodka is a creamier tomato-based sauce that will please all types of sauce lovers; whether they are partial to creamy or the traditional marinara. It’ll definitely be a big hit.
12. Cheese Stuffed Shells:
This is another pasta dish that was made to have leftovers. If you stuff the shells to the brim, which you totally should, most people would only have two or three stuffed shells in a single serving leaving many extra shells. The cheese is also deliciously melted and super filling. You can’t go wrong with this one.
13. Cheese Tortellini:
Speaking of cheese, you’ll never go wrong with cheese tortellini. Since they are delicious and filling, they’ll be a favorite at dinner time and a couple dinners afterward. It doesn’t really matter what sauce you pair with these perfect little pasta bites, though cream sauces are always a great go-to.
14. Spinach and Mushroom Pasta:
Another great flavor duo is spinach and mushrooms. Add some parmesan cheese to that duo and you have one of the best flavor trios of all time. These foods are amazing together and it just seems like they belong on pasta. Top all of that off with a wine sauce and some cheese and you’ll have the best pasta dish maybe ever.
15. Red pepper Pasta:
If you’re someone who loves to add a little spice to their dishes, look no further than this red pepper pasta. Not only do the extra seasonings add a little kick, but also some great flavor. The bright, vivid color from the peppers makes this dish Instagram worthy, too. Still, don’t forget the cheese and ground beef; if you’re feeling it.