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15 Delicious Meal Prep Pasta Recipes On A Budget

Pasta is the quintessential comfort food, loved by many for its versatility and affordability. Meal prepping pasta dishes can save both time and money while ensuring you have hearty, satisfying meals ready to go throughout the week. Here are 15 delicious meal prep pasta recipes that won’t break the bank!

1. One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This scrumptious dish requires minimal cleanup and boasts rich flavours. Combine spaghetti, garlic, vegetable broth, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add a handful of spinach for extra nutrients, and you’ll have a creamy, indulgent meal in under 30 minutes.

2. Tomato and Basil Pasta Salad

A refreshing pasta salad perfect for warm days! Toss together cooked fusilli with chopped tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella balls, and a drizzle of olive oil. It can be made in advance and served cold—ideal for lunches!

3. Pesto Pasta with Vegetables

Blend affordable ingredients like spinach or basil with garlic, nuts, and olive oil to create a homemade pesto. Mix with your favourite pasta and seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. It’s a healthy, vibrant dish that’s budget-friendly.

4. Chickpea and Spinach Pasta

Using pantry staples, this dish combines pasta with protein-packed chickpeas and nutritious spinach. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add canned tomatoes, spinach, and chickpeas. Serve over any pasta of your choice for a filling meal.

5. Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake

A yummy twist on the classic baked pasta! Cook penne and mix it with a homemade tomato sauce, then top with cheese and bake until bubbly. You can prepare it in advance, freeze portions, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

6. Lentil Bolognese

For a hearty and filling alternative to meat sauce, try lentil Bolognese! Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then add red lentils and tinned tomatoes. Serve over spaghetti for a nutritious meal that’s easy on the wallet.

7. Tuna Pasta Salad

Combining canned tuna, pasta, sweetcorn, and mayonnaise creates a quick and satisfying meal. Feel free to add peas or diced peppers for extra flavour. This dish can be prepared in bulk and kept in the fridge for days.

8. Vegetable Stir-Fry Noodles

This dish is all about convenience and speed. Stir-fry your favourite seasonal vegetables, toss them with cooked noodles, soy sauce, and a splash of sesame oil. It’s a vibrant, colourful meal that you can whip up in no time.

9. Baked Macaroni and Cheese

No list is complete without this classic comfort dish! Cook macaroni, then mix it with a blend of cheeses, milk, and spices. Bake until golden and bubbling. It’s a delightful meal that can be portioned out for the week.

10. Carbonara with Peas

A simple yet delectable dish that uses the affordable ingredient of eggs to create a creamy sauce. Cook spaghetti and mix it with crispy bacon (or pancetta) and peas, then stir in the beaten eggs to produce a luscious coating.

11. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, then topped with tomato sauce and baked until bubbly. These can be made in advance and stored in the freezer for a convenient, hearty meal.

12. Mushroom Stroganoff Pasta

Sauté mushrooms and onions with a drizzle of sour cream and serve over egg noodles for a creamy, satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare and uses inexpensive ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

13. Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta

Using budget-friendly sausages, this dish combines them with bell peppers and onions for a hearty, flavourful meal. Toss with your favourite pasta and a simple tomato sauce for an easy, filling dinner.

14. Chilli Prawn Linguine

For a touch of elegance, sauté prawns with garlic and chilli, then toss with linguine for a quick dish that feels gourmet. This meal is both flavourful and easy to prepare, making it perfect for midweek dinners.

15. Cabbage and Ham Pasta

Utilise leftover ham with this budget-friendly recipe. Sauté chopped cabbage with onion, garlic, and diced ham, then toss together with pasta and a splash of cream for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Conclusion

Meal prepping pasta doesn’t have to be boring or expensive. With these 15 delicious recipes, you can enjoy a variety of flavours and textures while staying within your budget. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, these dishes are perfect for planning ahead and savouring each delicious bite. Happy cooking!