When picky eaters make dinner a challenge, these 15 pasta dishes are here to save the day. They’re easy to make, hard to resist, and guaranteed to make everyone a fan. Perfect for keeping the whole family happy without the fuss, they get the job done. Even the pickiest of eaters won’t stand a chance against these meals.

Gnocchi in Lemon-Parmesan Sauce on a black plate.
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Families and picky eaters are all over Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. It’s comfort in a dish, easy to make and hard not to love. When you’re looking for something that feeds many with ease, this is it. Leftovers, if there are any, taste just as good warmed up the next day. Not much else can compete with its winning combination of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Two black cast iron pans filled with mac and cheese sit on cork trivets on a white wooden surface.
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Everyone loves Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese. That’s not by accident; it’s creamy, rich, and just perfect. Even those who usually pass on cheesy dishes can’t help but come back for more. The way the sauce clings to each bite makes it a hit every single time. In any setting, it never fails to impress and satisfy. Whenever it’s on the menu, expect happy faces at the table with plates wiped clean.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Italian Pot Roast Pasta

A hand lifting a fork with a bite of Italian Pot Roast Pasta on a bowl.
Italian Pot Roast Pasta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Bringing a hearty meal to the table has never been easier with Italian Pot Roast Pasta. The tender meat and pasta combination is a sure hit, especially on busy weeknights. Everyone enjoys digging in and it’s packed with flavor, making it a great dish for people of all ages. It’s not just another pasta dish; it’s one that stands out in any recipe collection. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you think of comfort food, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup should come to mind. It’s wholesome and packed with just the right ingredients to warm you up. Kids and adults alike will enjoy every spoonful. It has a special way of turning a simple meal into something memorable. Make a big pot because it’s perfect for leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Cajun Pasta with Shrimp on a black plate.
Cajun Pasta with Shrimp. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Spice up dinner time with Cajun Pasta with Shrimp. It offers a bit of a kick and pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta and shrimp. Even those who are usually hesitant about seafood will be pleasantly surprised. Each bite blends spice and creaminess in just the right amount. A great dish to keep in the rotation for something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta with Shrimp

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce, alongside cherry tomatoes and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a fresh and light meal, Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce is an excellent choice. The simple ingredients let the flavors shine through, perfect for a summer day. It’s easy to prepare and appeals to those who prefer lighter pasta dishes. You’ll find that even pickier eaters reach for seconds with this one. It’s always nice to have a simple recipe that’s a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole should be on your list, if you love hearty and gratifying meals. The combination of tender chicken and other classic components makes it an all-around winner. It’s friendly for any meal time and tends to disappear quickly once it’s on the table. Everyone enjoys it, and it’s pretty straightforward to make. For busy nights, it’s an ideal go-to dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio dish served on a stack of black plates.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing a taste of Greece to your home kitchen is easy with Pastitsio. This layered pasta dish combines hearty ingredients for a robust flavor, pleasing everyone at the table. It’s both a comforting and impressive meal that fits any occasion. The layers and combinations keep it interesting bite after bite. Perfect for family dinners or when you have guests.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something light yet filling? Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is what you need. It’s not heavy like traditional pasta dishes but still gratifying. Filled with shrimp and other fresh ingredients, it’s ideal for those preferring more refreshing meals. You simply can’t go wrong with this balanced and flavorful salad. Don’t be surprised if this becomes a preferred side dish for any outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Beefy Lasagna Soup

A bowl of beefy lasagna soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese, garnished with basil.
Beefy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Combining the coziness of soup with lasagna’s flavors, Beefy Lasagna Soup is a winner. It’s a warm and comforting dish that’s both fun and familiar. Ideal for any mealtime, it’s a creative spin on two favorites. The rich broth and hearty portions make it hard to resist. Great for colder days or when you need a comforting meal. You might find everyone happily reaching for more bread to finish off every morsel left in their bowl.
Get the Recipe: Beefy Lasagna Soup

Chicken Spaghetti

A hand holding a fork with a serving of chicken spaghetti from a cast-iron skillet.
Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Change up your usual pasta night with Chicken Spaghetti. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with flavors everyone loves. Quick to make and easy to love, it’s a popular choice among all ages. Expect clean plates and satisfied smiles when you serve this. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a reliable and yummy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Spaghetti

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

A bowl of salmon pasta salad with a creamy dressing, garnished with a sprig of dill.
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For something different yet delicious, go for Easy Salmon Pasta Salad. It brings together a light and flavorful combination that’s also nutritious. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a hit among those who appreciate seafood. Easy to prepare and refreshing, it’s a great addition to your regular meals. You can easily make it ahead of time too.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A plate of Mediterranean Couscous Salad With Smoked Tomatoes topped with parsley.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Add a twist to your pasta salad game with Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. The smoked tomatoes add a unique flavor you don’t find every day. This dish is light yet keeps you full and is perfect for meal prep. It’s an interesting combination that turns into a quick favorite. Great for lunches, picnics, or an easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Craving some classic comfort food? Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins is a perfect choice. It’s hearty, creamy, and reminds you of home-cooked meals. Even pickier eaters appreciate this comforting and filling dish. Easily a go-to recipe when you need something cozy and gratifying. It’s famed for quickly becoming every family’s preferred comfort dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Gnocchi in Lemon-Parmesan Sauce on a black plate.
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a light yet rich meal, Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce is perfect. The combination of gnocchi with the sauce helps make it stand out. Easy to make and elegant, it’s a meal that can impress guests or family. Perfect for special nights or a mid-week treat. Even the ones who usually pass on new dishes will appreciate this delicious combo.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *