10 Budget-Friendly Pasta Recipes Under $10 a Meal

Pasta is a staple that doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious meals for $10 or less! These budget-friendly pasta recipes will not only satisfy your cravings but also leave your wallet happy. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these dishes are all about maximizing flavor without overspending.

Delicious One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This one-pot garlic parmesan pasta is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic, coats each strand of pasta perfectly. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The image showcases a beautiful bowl of pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. The warm tones of the wooden bowl and the fresh ingredients around it create a cozy vibe, inviting you to dig in. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but also looks appealing on your dinner table.

With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is budget-friendly and can easily be made for under $10. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Liquid: Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add Pasta: Add the fettuccine or spaghetti to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Mix in Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious one-pot garlic parmesan pasta!

Hearty Pasta Primavera With Seasonal Vegetables

Pasta primavera is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of seasonal vegetables. The image captures a bowl filled with perfectly cooked pasta, tossed with fresh zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Each ingredient adds a pop of color, making the dish not only tasty but visually appealing.

This recipe is budget-friendly, costing under $10 to prepare a meal that serves four. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of pasta and fresh vegetables creates a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your hearty pasta primavera!

Creamy Spinach And Ricotta Pasta

This creamy spinach and ricotta pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and simple ingredients. The pasta is coated in a luscious sauce made from ricotta cheese, creating a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the fresh spinach. The vibrant green of the spinach adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.

In the image, you can see the pasta beautifully presented in a rustic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. A side salad of fresh greens complements the meal, offering a refreshing balance to the creamy pasta. This dish is not just tasty; it’s budget-friendly, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (shells or your choice)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Mix in Ricotta: Lower the heat and add ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined and heated through.
5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and enjoy your creamy spinach and ricotta dish!

Classic Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the fettuccine, making it a favorite for many. This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, fitting right into our theme of meals under $10.

The image shows a beautifully plated bowl of fettuccine Alfredo, topped with a sprinkle of black pepper and a fresh parsley garnish. The creamy sauce looks rich and inviting, promising a delightful experience. On the side, there’s a bowl of fresh greens, which adds a nice touch of color and nutrition to the meal.

Making Fettuccine Alfredo at home is simple and requires just a few ingredients. You can whip up this classic dish in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Plate the fettuccine Alfredo and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Vegetable Lasagna With Ricotta And Spinach

This vegetable lasagna is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Layers of tender pasta are filled with a mix of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and vibrant vegetables. The melted cheese on top adds a comforting finish, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Not only is this recipe budget-friendly, but it’s also easy to make. You can whip it up for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. The best part? It’s under $10 a meal, so you can enjoy a hearty dish without breaking the bank.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place three noodles on top.
5. Add half of the ricotta mixture and half of the chopped bell peppers. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers: noodles, marinara, ricotta mixture, bell peppers, and mozzarella.
7. Top with the final layer of noodles, remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Simple Baked Ziti With Sausage

Baked ziti is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. This version with sausage adds a hearty touch, making it filling and satisfying. The image shows a vibrant red baking dish filled with golden, cheesy pasta, topped with fresh basil leaves. It looks inviting and delicious, perfect for any family dinner.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients. The combination of ziti pasta, sausage, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese creates a delightful meal that can be prepared on a budget. Plus, it’s under $10 a meal, making it a great choice for those looking to save while enjoying a tasty dinner.

Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and garlic powder. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sausage mixture. Add 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked ziti!

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta is a simple and satisfying dish that brings comfort to any meal. The image captures a vibrant pot of pasta, cooked to perfection, with juicy tomatoes and a creamy sauce that looks irresistible. Fresh herbs sprinkle the top, adding a pop of color and flavor. This dish is not just easy to make, but it also keeps your kitchen clean with minimal cleanup.

The ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip this up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the pasta, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, garlic, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente.
3. Add the heavy cream and cherry tomatoes to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Pasta With Roasted Garlic And Broccoli

This dish is a delightful mix of roasted garlic and fresh broccoli, tossed with pasta. The golden-brown garlic adds a sweet, nutty flavor, while the broccoli brings a vibrant green color and crunch. Together, they create a simple yet satisfying meal that won't break the bank.

The pasta serves as a perfect base, soaking up the flavors of the roasted garlic and the slight bitterness of the broccoli. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you want something quick and tasty.

Not only is this meal easy to prepare, but it also keeps your budget in check. You can whip it up for under $10, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat well without overspending.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (your choice)
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 bulb of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast for about 30-35 minutes until soft.
2. While the garlic is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta.
3. Drain the pasta and broccoli, then return them to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the pot, add olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Sausage And Peppers Pasta

Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines hearty sausage with colorful bell peppers and pasta. This meal is not only quick to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant colors of the peppers add a fresh touch, while the sausage brings a savory flavor that everyone will love.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to use any type of sausage you prefer. Whether you choose spicy Italian or mild chicken sausage, it will all taste great. The combination of pasta and veggies makes it a well-rounded meal that’s filling and satisfying.

Pair this pasta with a simple salad for a complete dinner. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced meal that’s sure to please your family.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb sausage (Italian or your choice)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Veggies: Stir in the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly Sausage and Peppers Pasta!

Tasty Tuna Pasta Salad

This Tuna Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a perfect budget-friendly meal. The creamy dressing pairs wonderfully with the tender pasta and fresh ingredients. You can see the vibrant green peas and fresh parsley adding a pop of color to the dish, while the tuna provides a hearty protein boost. The lemon halves in the background hint at a zesty twist that brightens up the entire salad.

Making this dish is simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead. It’s filling, satisfying, and can easily be made for under $10, making it a great option for anyone looking to save some cash while enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 can (12 ounces) tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, thawed peas, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Stir until well mixed.
3. Add Pasta: Once the pasta is cool, add it to the tuna mixture. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
4. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust lemon juice for extra zing if desired.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your tasty tuna pasta salad!