Lazy Boy Pasta

Lazy boy pasta recipes are perfect for those times when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. These simple pasta dishes are quick, satisfying, and require minimal effort. Here are a few easy, “lazy” pasta recipes:

1. Garlic Butter Pasta

This classic dish is so simple, but the rich garlic butter sauce makes it feel luxurious.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the garlic butter mixture, toss to coat. If it seems dry, add some reserved pasta water to make it creamy.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

2. One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

Everything cooks in one pot for an effortless, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (penne or spaghetti works well)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional for creaminess)
• A handful of fresh basil (or dried basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, and pasta. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10-12 minutes).
3. If using, stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Serve warm!

3. Cheesy Pesto Pasta

A quick, cheesy, and herby pasta dish that feels indulgent with very little effort.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
• 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with pesto until evenly coated.
3. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella (if using), mixing until the cheese is melted and gooey.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with extra cheese on top if desired.

4. Creamy Avocado Pasta

A creamy, dairy-free alternative that’s rich and smooth.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or any choice)
• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to the package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, blend avocado, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender until smooth.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Toss the pasta with the creamy avocado mixture, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired creaminess.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra lemon juice if desired.

5. Egg and Parmesan Pasta (Cacio e Uova)

A simple Italian dish using just eggs, pasta, and Parmesan.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, bucatini, or linguine)
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• A small drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water.
2. While the pasta cooks, beat the eggs with grated Parmesan in a bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.
4. Toss the hot pasta with the egg and cheese mixture, adding a little pasta water at a time to create a creamy, velvety sauce.
5. Finish with extra Parmesan and pepper. Serve immediately!

6. Pasta Aglio e Olio (Garlic and Olive Oil Pasta)

This is an easy, flavorful pasta dish with garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti is most common)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced thinly
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan.
3. Add the garlic slices and sauté for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for another minute.
5. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water, and toss it in the garlic and oil mixture, adding pasta water to make it silky and smooth.
6. Season with salt, and garnish with chopped parsley.

These “lazy” pasta recipes are designed to save time while still delivering a satisfying meal. Feel free to customize them with what you have on hand!