When it comes to sitting down for Thanksgiving, we all hope to find dishes that warm our hearts… for me, that’s pasta!
That’s why I’ve put together some of the best pasta recipes on this page that would be a hit on any holiday table, and once tasted, will melt the hearts of every guest.
15. Spicy Pumpkin and Pesto Cheese-Stuffed Shells: A Bold Thanksgiving Pasta Recipe
When you’re craving Italian with a seasonal twist, this Thanksgiving pasta recipe hits the spot. Jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy basil pesto and ricotta mixture, baked in a spicy pumpkin vodka sauce that’s both cozy and indulgent.
The spicy Italian chicken sausage and fontina cheese take it to another level, making it a crowd-pleasing pasta dish for Thanksgiving. It’s perfect for a holiday meal or even a dinner party, bringing both fall flavors and a little heat to your table. You won’t want to miss this!
14. Caramelized Mushroom Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto: A Flavorful Pasta Side for Thanksgiving
This caramelized mushroom pasta with crispy prosciutto is rich in flavor and feels like the perfect fall meal. The mushrooms bring a deep, earthy taste while the prosciutto adds a satisfying crunch.
Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or keeping it low-key, this Thanksgiving pasta recipe is sure to impress. Plus, the caramelization gives the mushrooms a slightly sweet touch, balancing the saltiness of the prosciutto. Serve it warm and watch it disappear from the table!
13. Thanksgiving Pasta Pie: The Ultimate Showstopper Thanksgiving Pasta Bake
If you love a showstopper dish, this Thanksgiving pasta bake will have everyone at the table in awe! Made with tightly packed rigatoni, savory marinara sauce, and a creamy ricotta topping, this pasta pie holds its shape beautifully once you remove it from the springform pan.
It’s surprisingly easy to make, thanks to jarred marinara sauce, and feels like the perfect centerpiece for a holiday meal. Serve it with some extra sauce on the side for those who love their pasta for Thanksgiving dinner extra saucy!
12. Butternut Squash Carbonara: A Unique Twist on Thanksgiving Pasta
Looking for a unique twist on traditional carbonara? This Thanksgiving pasta recipe uses butternut squash as the secret ingredient for a creamy, rich sauce without any butter or cream. The result? A lighter, veggie-packed version of a beloved classic that still tastes indulgent.
Perfect for sneaking some fall flavor into your Thanksgiving dinner without compromising on taste, this dish will have everyone at the table asking for the recipe. Trust me, you’ll never look at carbonara the same way again!
11. Apple, Grape, and Pecan Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Pasta Salad for Thanksgiving Dinner
Looking for a refreshing twist on a Thanksgiving pasta salad? This recipe brings together crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy pecans for a delightful fall dish. Perfect for a holiday dinner or a post-apple-picking picnic, this pasta salad for Thanksgiving balances sweet and savory flavors with a zesty mustard dressing.
The best part? You can switch out the pecans for walnuts or pistachios to keep things interesting! It’s a versatile and easy dish that will have everyone asking for more.
10. Carrot Pasta: A Colorful and Light Thanksgiving Pasta Dish
This unique Thanksgiving pasta dish will add color and flavor to your table! Carrot pasta is a lighter take on the classic gnocchi, but just as delicious. The vibrant orange hue and slightly sweet flavor pair perfectly with sage butter, creating a warm, cozy meal.
Easy to make and even easier to devour, it’s the ideal pasta dish for Thanksgiving that feels indulgent without being heavy. Plus, it looks stunning on any holiday table. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!
9. Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad: A Perfect Pasta Side Dish for Thanksgiving
Think pasta salad is just for summer? Think again! This pasta salad for Thanksgiving combines the best fall flavors, like roasted butternut squash, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pine nuts. It’s perfect for making ahead and serving as a pasta side dish for Thanksgiving dinner or even as a lighter meal the night before.
The tangy kick of whole-grain mustard and fresh thyme balances out the creamy and nutty flavors, making this salad a refreshing, yet hearty addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
8. 3-Cheese Pumpkin Pasta Casserole With Spinach: A Comforting Thanksgiving Pasta Casserole
Casseroles are having their time in the spotlight, and this Thanksgiving pasta casserole is no exception! Imagine creamy pumpkin, three kinds of cheese, and spinach all baked into a golden, comforting dish. It’s the perfect pasta dish for Thanksgiving that feels rich and indulgent while sneaking in some greens for balance.
Plus, it makes a great make-ahead dish for those busy holiday nights. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal prepping, this casserole freezes beautifully and will have everyone asking for seconds!
7. Fall Harvest Pasta Salad with Creamy Poppyseed Dressing: A Must-Have Thanksgiving Pasta Salad
If you think pasta salads can’t be elevated for Thanksgiving, this fall pasta salad will make you think again! Roasted broccoli, smoky bacon, and sweet cranberries come together for the ultimate balance of salty and sweet.
And the creamy homemade poppyseed dressing? It’s a dream. Maple-glazed pecans, buttery pine nuts, and zesty feta add an extra layer of flavor, making it more than just a side—it’s a star dish at any Thanksgiving dinner. This Thanksgiving pasta side dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!
6. Deep Dish Pasta Pizza: A Fun Thanksgiving Pasta Casserole Twist
Ever feel torn between pizza and pasta? This Thanksgiving pasta casserole lets you enjoy both in one dish! With a pasta crust and all your favorite pizza toppings, it’s a unique twist that’s sure to please the crowd at any holiday table.
Cheesy, saucy, and topped with crispy pepperoni, it’s baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or looking for a fun dish to make ahead, this deep-dish pasta pizza is a winner. Trust me, it’s the comfort food your Thanksgiving dinner is missing!
5. Creamy Squash Penne Prosciutto: A Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Pasta Dish
On Thanksgiving Eve, when your kitchen is buzzing with pies cooling off and stuffing getting prepped, you need a quick, no-fuss dinner that doesn’t add to the chaos.
This Thanksgiving pasta dish hits the spot! Creamy butternut squash sauce over penne, topped with crispy prosciutto, is a fantastic way to use that leftover pumpkin puree and clear some counter space. Plus, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser with minimal cleanup. Perfect for when oven space is a precious commodity!
4. Butternut Squash Ravioli with White-Wine Sauce: An Elegant Italian Thanksgiving Pasta Recipe
Butternut Squash Ravioli with White-Wine Sauce is a dish that brings together the cozy flavors of fall with a sophisticated Italian twist, making it an excellent choice for an Italian-themed Thanksgiving dinner.
The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, all enveloped in a delicate white wine sauce.
3. Pasta Risotto with Pumpkin: A Cozy Italian Pasta Dish for Thanksgiving Dinner
This Pasta Risotto with Pumpkin, or “pasta e cocozza” as it’s known in Naples, is a true gem for a traditional Italian Thanksgiving dinner. Originating from the rustic peasant kitchens of Southern Italy, this dish is a comforting blend of tender pasta and rich, creamy pumpkin, all cooked together in a single pot.
It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table, reflecting the essence of Italian comfort food, and is perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving Italian style.
2. Pumpkin Lasagna: A Seasonal Italian Twist for Your Thanksgiving Feast
Pumpkin Lasagna is an unexpectedly delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite, making it the perfect dish for an Italian-themed Thanksgiving.
The rich layers of pasta, creamy pumpkin, and melted cheese combine to create a comforting meal that celebrates the flavors of fall. This lasagna isn’t just about tradition; it’s about bringing a seasonal touch to your Italian Thanksgiving dinner.
1. Layered Italian Baked Mac and Cheese: A Rich Pasta Dish for Thanksgiving
This Italian-style Thanksgiving dish combines the comforting essence of classic mac and cheese with the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. The creamy cheese sauce perfectly coats the pasta, while a layer of hearty Bolognese sauce adds an unexpected twist.
It’s like getting the best of both worlds in every bite! This dish is not only a favorite at our gatherings, but it also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.
