Make dinner something to look forward to on chilly, dark evenings with one of these cold-weather pasta recipes. Packed with seasonal heroes and plenty of comforting touches, read on for sixteen soul-soothing plates of pasta from the likes of Nigella Lawson, Jamie Oliver, Rick Stein and more.
Pasta all’ Amatriciana
This classic pasta recipe is the only one of the four Roman classics (carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana and alla gricia) to feature a tomato-based sauce. And what a sauce it is. Rich, smoky, sweet and just a little spicy, it’s perfect for cold evenings.
Paccheri, ‘Nduja and Burrata
This warming pasta dish provides a balanced combination of fiery ‘nduja, sweet tomato and creamy burrata with every bite.
Spaghetti alla puttanesca
Anna del Conte presents her easy recipe for classic Italian favourite spaghetti alla puttanesca. Made with tomatoes, anchovies and olives, it’s the ultimate storecupoard pasta.
Pasta Carbonara with Cavolo Nero
This seaonal take on a classic adds a subtle bitterness in the form of cavolo nero, which perfectly complements the sweet and salty carbonara sauce. For a more traditional version, take a look at this recipe from Jamie Oliver.
Jamie Oliver Cauliflower Cheese Pasta with Creamy Sauce, Crispy Garlic, Cauli Leaf Bread Crumbs
Made using only seven ingredients, this easy meat-free pasta transforms your favourite roast dinner side dish into a luxurious smooth sauce. Packed with cauliflower, it’s perfect for getting more vegetables onto your plate.
Pici Cacio e Pepe
The classic Roman pasta dish of pici cacio e pepe is surprisingly easy to make thanks to this authentic recipe from London-based institution, Padella.
Macaroni Cheese with Smoky Bacon
This truly indulgent take on a classic from Rick Stein is the ultimate macaroni and cheese recipe, packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and salty smoked bacon. Looking for a fresh take? Try the Ottolenghi Test Kitchen’s Middle Eastern version, complete with za’atar pesto, crispy onions and plenty of feta.
Butternut, Cashew, and Sage Pasta
This rich, vegan pasta dish pairs the classic combination of sweet butternut squash and fragrant sage, for a satisfying and simple midweek pasta dish.
One-pan Creamy Squash Pasta
A midweek meal favourite, this comforting and substantial one-pan pasta is quick and easy to throw together. Leave out the optional pancetta to make this a fully vegetarian dish.
Jamie Oliver’s Lasagne: Slow-cooked fennel, sweet leeks and cheeses
Sweet fennel and leek meet layers of heavenly pasta and four delicious cheeses in Jamie’s ultimate vegetarian comfort food. For meat-based lasagne, take a look at Nadine Levy-Redzepi’s recipe here.
Lazy Lasagne
This totally vegan lasagne is also a complete time-saver. Made in one pan without the fuss of layering the different components, this comforting dish comes together in no time.
Nigella Lawson’s Pappardelle with Cavolo Nero and ‘Nduja
Nigella’s simple six-ingredient pasta brings together smoky, spicy’nduja and bitter cavolo nero. Swap the ‘nduja for harissa for a vegetarian take.
Beef Ragù Pasta
The very definition of a classic, a traditional beef bolognese will always be a favourite for the whole family. It can also be a steal for cooking on a budget if you keep your eyes peeled for cheaper mince. For a fully vegetarian option, try this recipe from Jamie Oliver.
Jamie Oliver’s Sausage Pappardelle
Comforting and delicious, this quick one-pan pasta will be on the table in just fourteen minutes. Don’t forget to top with a generous grating of Parmesan.
Nigella Lawson’s Chicken in a Pot with Lemon and Orzo
This one-pot masterpiece from Nigella leaves you with not just a delicious brothy, lemony pasta dish, but a golden roast chicken too. We love to serve it on Sundays as an alternative to a classic chicken roast.
Mary Berry’s Bolognese Bake
This all-in-one pasta bolognese bake from Mary Berry is comfort in a tin. A rich meaty sauce and plenty of melted cheese make this a winter warmer that the whole family will enjoy.