In need of a little fast & easy vegan pasta inspiration? Wondering how to make delicious vegan pasta recipes? Here's a list of over 35 amazing meals that are centered around plant-based pasta.
Oh pasta, how I love thee! Let me count the ways... When life gets hectic and cooking seems imPASTAble (sorry, couldn't help myself lol), I often turn to noodles. They're a wonder food!
And before you ask: Yes, I am a Licensed Nutritionist, and yes, I still stand behind that statement. Pasta (in moderation) can be enjoyed on a healthy vegan diet. (See the Making it a Healthy Meal section below for tips on this).
What else is kid-friendly, shelf-stable, quick to make, inexpensive, AND versatile enough to be sauced or baked, twirled or scooped, served hot or cold, and work equally well in soups and salads? Oh, and is also vegan and can be made gluten-free? If you come up with an answer that isn't pasta, ping me in the comments below!
If you're in need of a little fast & easy vegan noodle inspiration, you are in the right place. Here's a looooong list of over 35 of my favorite simple meals that are centered around plant-based pasta.
Don't worry, I've categorized them for you so you can easily click to the header that fits most closely with your mood below.
Jump to:
- How to Cook Pasta
- Substitutions for Vegans
- What Kind of Pasta Can a Vegan Eat?
- What Pastas Are Plant-Based?
- Is Dry Pasta Vegan?
- Kinds of Noodles
- Making it a Healthy Meal
- Creamy Pasta Dishes
- Baked Pasta
- Oodles of Noodles
- One-Pot Pasta
- "Meaty" Plant-Based Pasta
- Pasta Salads
- Tomato-Based
- 💬 Reviews
How to Cook Pasta
The most common method for cooking pasta is in a large pot of generously salted boiling water. That said, there are a bunch of other ways to cook noodles, including:
- baking
- stir-frying
- making one-pot pasta on the stove, slow cooker, or Instantpot (where the sauce and the noodles cook at the same time in the same pan)
- and even microwaving (though I don't really recommend that unless you have to - which I totally did in my college dorm)
In an ideal world, no matter what method you choose, you should end up with al dente noodles. This literally translates to "to the tooth," which is a fun Italian way of saying the noodle is cooked but still has a little bite.
TIP: Making a long noodle dish (e.g. spaghetti) for dinner with the kiddos? A fun way to teach them when pasta is done is to throw it at the fridge. If it sticks, it's cooked!
Substitutions for Vegans
If you feel like your favorite kinds of pasta are off-limits because they're creamy, cheesy, or meaty, think again! There are a ton of smart ways to swap ingredients to make vegan versions of your favorite dishes.
While you'll learn many of these tricks as you follow along with the recipes below, here are a few fun facts to titillate your tastebuds:
- Creamy sauces can be replicated using nuts (like cashews) that are soaked and puréed.
- Cheesy flavors can be emulated using one of my favorite vegan pantry items - nutritional yeast, a.k.a. "nooch."
- Umami flavor can be added with miso paste
- Meaty consistencies can be replicated using things like mushrooms, tofu, lentils, or vegan meat subsitutes
What Kind of Pasta Can a Vegan Eat?
As long as you are reaching for a package of vegan noodles (just check the label), then you can make just about any pasta dish a vegan one. NOTE: Unless you're reaching for a bag of egg noodles or some fresh pasta (found in the refrigerated section), most of the packaged noodles at the store *should* be vegan.
So whether you're craving a creamy alfredo, cheesy lasagna, umami ramen, or a "meaty" bolognese, there's something vegan for everyone. Don't believe me? I literally have over 35 vegan pasta dishes outlined below!
What Pastas Are Plant-Based?
Many pasta dishes in the world are naturally plant-based, like the much-beloved spaghetti and marinara of my youth. Others - like cheesy lasagna or meaty bolognese - require some thoughtful ingredient substitutions.
Don't worry though; I've got your back! For the pasta recipes I've listed below, you can rest assured that ALL of them are completely vegan and all of them are super delicious.
The bottom line is that just about any pasta dish you can think of - from ravioli to pad thai - can be made deliciously plant-based.
Is Dry Pasta Vegan?
Unless you're reaching for a filled pasta (like ravioli) or egg noodles, most of the commercially available dried noodles are naturally vegan. Just be sure to check the label.
Are you also gluten free? Don't fret! Not only can you swap in actual plants for long noodles (like spaghetti squash or zoodles), but there are plenty of boxed brands you can find at the store nowadays. I myself love chickpea, lentil, and brown rice pasta. Here's a helpful article from VegOut magazine listing their favorite gluten-free and vegan pasta brands.
Kinds of Noodles
While it might be a *bit* hyperbolic to say there are as many kinds of noodles as there are leaves on a tree, I have to believe that it's somewhere in the ballpark.
I mean, there are noodles that are shaped like everything from the alphabet to angel hair; wagon wheels to wavy ribbons; and seemingly everything between. Heck, there are even NEW shapes of pasta being invented in the 2020s!
And that isn't even considering the ingredients that can go into making your perfect pasta. I've seen noodles made from wheat flour (duh), but also beans, rice, quinoa, millet, zucchini, hearts of palm, tofu, and even seaweed.
So if you're in need of a true deep-dive into the wide world of noodles, let me just direct you to the Encyclopedia of Pasta. I'm not even joking. It's a thing. Because pasta is awesome and the whole world should know it.
Making it a Healthy Meal
As a nutritionist, I often get asked: "Why do you eat pasta? Isn't it unhealthy?" And I always answer, "well that depends".
Honestly, it's really all about the ingredients. The kind of pasta you use, the veggies you include, the type of sauce you use, and any plant-based protein that can be added.
Here are a few things to think about when making a healthy vegan pasta recipe:
- What kind of pasta can you use to make it healthier? Basic white pasta (the kind more widly used) offers no nutritional benefit and can spike blood sugar. So no matter what the recipe calls for, I often sub in a gluten-free bean-based noodle for a extra boost of nutrients. Or sub in veggie-based noodles like zucchini noodles aka zoodles.
- How can I add more veggies? I always add vegetables to my meals. Whether that's having a big salad before enjoying my pasta or adding roasted, sauted, or steamed veggies to my dish, I'm always thinking of ways to up my nutrient intake.
- How can I add some plant-based protein to my meal? Some marinated tofu,tempeh crumbles,tofu crumbles, or a tofu steakwill add some extra plant-based protein any of these recipes. I also love adding beans. White beans and chickpeas work well in creamy pasta recipes while lentils, kidney beans, and black beans work better in tomato-based sauces.
For the recipes that I list below, feel free to make any additions or substitutions that align with your eating habits.
Creamy Pasta Dishes
Creamy Cashew Mac and Cheese
You won’t miss the dairy one bit in this 20 minute (!!!) creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese. My cashew cheese sauce is velvety and perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
Check out this recipe
Vegan Pasta with Vodka Sauce
This recipe is versatile, healthy, and easy to put together. Plus it pairs perfectly with any type of pasta noodle, whether it's your favorite Italian pasta, gluten-free noodles, or even zoodles.
Check out this recipe
Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Pasta with Sage
Pumpkin and sage take the lead in this delightfully rich and cozy fall dinner. As an added bonus? It takes just 30 minutes to get on the table.
Check out this recipe
Vegan Cashew Alfredo
Eating this cashew alfredo is like wrapping yourself up in a warm blaket - tt makes you all cosy. Besides being delicious, this sauce is ready in only 5 minutes!
Check out this recipe
Thai Red Curry Mac & Cheese
The ultimate comforting fusion dish! The creamy sauce, made from cashews & coconut milk, includes Thai red curry paste for a new twist on vegan mac and cheese.
Check out this recipe
Veggie-Based Pasta & Sauces
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Ever get sick of the same old tomato sauce for your pasta? I know I do! Fight flavor fatigue with the sweet & savory, lightly charred piquancy of roasted red peppers.
Check out this recipe
Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese
You can’t go wrong with this 20-minute mac & cheese recipe. Creamy, tangy, and delicious, this easy and healthy dish is a comforting choice for family dinners or holidays.
Check out this recipe
Cauliflower Alfredo
Healthy, yet still delightfully creamy. It’s lighter in calories than traditional Alfredo sauce, but not lacking in rich, velvety sauce!
Check out this recipe
Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
The ultimate vegan comfort food. It’s a perfect recipe when you’re wanting to add a little spice to your dinner or need a yummy side for game day potlucks.
Check out this recipe
Zucchini Alfredo Noodles
The perfect meal for when you’re craving something naughty but want to be nice. This delicious dinner is not only healthy, filling AND gluten-free, but also takes just about 20 minutes to get on the table. You’re welcome!
Check out this recipe
Baked Pasta
Baked Pumpkin Mac & Cheese
When there’s a bit of a chill in the air, all I want are cozy things like sweaters, fuzzy socks, hot cocoa and baked creamy pasta, like this pumpkin and cheese number right here.
Check out this recipe
Tomato Pasta Bake
by A Virtual Vegan
This crispy garlic topped, tomato-y masterpiece is a budget-friendly, hearty & delicious meal that the whole family will love!
Vegan Baked Pasta
by Veggie Fun Kitchen
This ooey-gooey, saucy and chewy casserole will immediately transport you back to the Sunday pasta bakes of your childhood.
Vegan Pastit*io | Greek Pasta Bake
by Rainbow Nourishments
With layers of pasta, a lentil tomato sauce and creamy bechamel sauce, this Greek pasta bake is a high-protein, high-comfort food you'll love.
Oodles of Noodles
Vegan Peanut Noodles
Filled with saucy noodles and lots of veggies, this zippy meal is perfect for meal prepping grab-and-go lunches or zero-cook dinners.
Check out this recipe
Thai Basil Noodles
Perfect if you’re craving some bold flavor, this easy recipe for drunken noodles uses rice noodles, tofu, and veggies to make a healthy, gluten-free dinner.
Check out this recipe
Butternut Squash Noodle Bowl
Try this easy to make and a healthy meal for dinnertime. It's perfect for those chilly nights when you need some serious comfort food!
Check out this recipe
Curry Noodles
This deeply spiced (but not spicy!) curry dish is a perfect entrée for anyone wanting to venture into a broader flavor palate. Plus it takes just 15 minutes to make!
Check out this recipe
One-Pot Pasta
Lemon One-Pot Pasta
This is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight when you can't bear the thought of dishes. With only one pot, this bright meal requires almost no clean up.
Check out this recipe
Vegan One Pot Tomato Pasta
by Running on Real Food
Made with simple, fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples, you’ll love having this delicious vegan recipe in your back pocket.
Creamy One Pot Spinach Pasta
by Glue and Glitter
My family is obsessed with this rich and creamy vegan pasta bake with tender pieces of melt-in-your-mouth spinach. I can't wait for you to try it!
One Pot Veggie Sausage Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
by The Veg Space
A creamy and delicious 20 minute one-pot veggie sausage pasta with a sun-dried tomato sauce. All ingredients cook together in the same pot for a no-fuss meal.
"Meaty" Plant-Based Pasta
Spicy Sesame Noodles with Tempeh Ground "Meat"
Noodles are covered in a spicy creamy tahini & peanut butter sauce and topped with tasty tempeh. It’s a delicious and healthy meal you can have ready in 20 minutes!
Check out this recipe
Vegan Hamburger Helper
From Bohemian Vegan Kitchen
It’s impossibly easy to put together. The kids will love it. And your partner will ask for seconds, and possibly thirds.
Lentil Bolognese
Made with spaghetti squash "noodles" and swapping in protein-packed lentils means this pasta dish is made with entirely whole foods. Take that, pasta haters.
Check out this recipe
Sausage Skillet Pasta
by Home Baked Vegan
This is a great dish to make when you are short on time and you still want a delicious, flavorful meal!
Tofu Bolognese
by Rescue Dog Kitchen
Why buy store-bought vegan bolognese sauce in a jar when you can make it homemade in just 25 minutes?!?
Pasta Salads
Ranch Pasta Salad
This tasty 20-minute recipe is easy to make and much healthier than boxed pasta salads. It’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or parties and is gluten and dairy-free!
Check out this recipe
Easy Vegan Pasta Salad
This healthy and tasty dish comes together in 15 minutes, can be made ahead and is gluten-free. It’s the perfect summery side to bring to any cookout, BBQ, or potluck.
Check out this recipe
Ramen Noodle Salad
Ramen noodles are good for more than just soup! This healthy & colorful dish is packed with gluten-free rice noodles, crunchy shredded veggies, and a zesty oil-free dressing.
Check out this recipe
Picnic Pasta Salad
A fresh, flavorful mix of veggies and curly pasta take a tumble in a bright avocado dressing for an unforgettable picnic side.
Tomato-Based
Garden Veggie Marinara
from Veggie Inspired
An easy marinara sauce is loaded up with chunky summer veggies and served over pasta for a delicious, healthy meal the whole family will love!
Cherry Tomato Basil Pasta
From No Sweat Vegan
Ready in just 20 minutes and oil-free, this bright and fresh pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Vegan Tomato Paste Pasta Sauce
By The Veggies Save the Day
You'll never need to buy jarred pasta sauce again when you make this easy pantry recipe. It's not only economical, it's also incredibly delicious.
Vegan Arrabbiata
by Vegan Punks
The ingredients for this bright and spicy pasta are super simple, and you can have it ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights!
Herb & Pesto Pasta Dishes
Pistachio Pesto
Switch the pistachios for pine nuts and save yourself some dollars! Ready in under 30 minutes, this is a great weeknight family meal.
Check out this recipe
Avocado Herb Penne
from Veggie Chick
This dreamy pasta is colorful, flavorful and healthy. It’s also easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, using only your food processor (and boiling the noodles). No other cooking required!
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
by Vegetarian Gastronomy
Creamy pesto pasta has been a favorite in our house for years, this one being no exception. I promise you will stop for nothing once you have a bowl of this dish in front of you!
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
from The Petite Cook
This quick vegan pesto recipe is highly nutritious, healthy, and requires only 6 simple ingredients and 15 minutes to make!
Mary Ellen
Mary Ellen Valverde MS, CNS, LDN is a Licensed Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist who empowers vegans to feel clear and confident about what is uniquely nourishing to them. Mary Ellen's recipes and nutrition information have been featured on Yahoo News, Parade, VegNews, LIVESTRONG, Dr. Axe, Greatist, LIVEKINDLY, Brit+Co, Well+Good, and more.
