With the cold weather months upon us, there is no better remedy for the bitter cold than hot pasta dishes. Whether it be a new dish that you want to experiment with or a classic Italian recipe, these pasta meals are sure to brighten anyone's day. Cook up one of these recipes, cuddle up on the couch with a blanket, and enjoy pasta just like grandma used to make. A nice hot bowl of pasta is the key to surviving the cold weather months.
1. Bacon Mac and Cheese
The most appropriate way to start off this list of comfort pastas is of course with Mac and Cheese. More specifically, the best comforting Mac and cheese includes a couple different types of cheeses, bread crumbs to top it off, and most importantly, bacon. I am a firm believer that bacon can make anything taste absolutely incredible. So what do you get when you combine one perfect dish with another perfect ingredient? You get a must recreate recipe that will keep you satisfied all winter long.
2. Pasta with Sausage, Squash, and Sage Brown Butter
If you are craving a dish with winter ingredients and flavors, look no further. This pasta dish has all the perfect winter harvest ingredients to make your mouth water. The combination of sausage, squash, and sage are enough to make anyone excited to devour this meal. And, luckily for all of us who do not have time to spend hours cooking, it's a relatively easy recipe. Only about 40 minutes spent in the kitchen will bring you these results, and it is more than worth the time.
3. One Pan Baked Ziti
One of the most classic and filling pasta dishes of all time that is guaranteed to satisfy all is baked ziti. Ever since I was a kid, baked ziti has always been a safe staple dinner that I was familiar with. And, since we are all about simple cooking, this particular recipe is cooked all in one pan! There is nothing more comforting than knowing you don't have to wash thousands of dishes. That alone is bound to make your night 10 times more enjoyable.
4. Cacio e Pepe
This year, one of my friends blessed me with the knowledge of Cacio e Pepe, and truly it is magical. It is the perfect minimalistic dish with the ingredients that everyone loves-- pepper and cheese. Who can turn down cheese? There are very few ingredients, it takes little time and effort, and most importantly it is delicious. This dish is perfect for a college student on a budget and a time crunch.
5. Spaghetti and Meatballs
The perfect way to bring comfort and happiness during dinner time is to stick to those childhood classics. Spaghetti and meatballs is just that, and also is an adjustable meal. If you have the time to be a full-on ~chef~ and make the meatballs and sauce from scratch, then go for it! If it's been a stressful day, you can easily pick up pre-made meatballs and sauce at the store and it will still be a satisfying meal. Another way to customize this dish is to try spaghetti squash instead of regular pasta for a fun, healthy twist!
6. Pasta with Tomatoes, Capers, Olives, and Breadcrumbs
To be honest, this dish has been my favorite comfort dinner this winter and I have already made it several times. It's not a super complex dish to make, yet it tastes like you put a lot of effort into it. When I make this pasta meal, I usually add chicken to add some protein. However, the original recipe is perfect on it's own and it's vegan too! I strongly recommend trying this dish and it is undeniably the perfect winter pasta.
Whether it's for a crowd or to just enjoy alone, all of these hot pasta dishes are sure to please. Pasta is one of the most basic, comforting staples in any dish, and will always be one of the best food items out there. Feel free to experiment different types of pasta with these dishes and find the shape that you like the best. There is nothing more comforting on a cold, snowy day than some hot, delicious pasta.