27 Flavorful Boxing Day Pasta Recipes to Try This Holiday

The holiday season always brings a sense of joy and togetherness, especially after the hustle and bustle of Christmas day. On Boxing Day, when the festivities are still in full swing but more laid-back, I find it’s the perfect time to whip up some comforting and flavorful pasta dishes.

These meals are both hearty and easy to prepare, making them ideal for relaxing with family and friends. So, I've compiled a list of 27 flavorful Boxing Day pasta recipes to try this holiday. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, there's something here to tickle everyone’s taste buds.

1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Who doesn't love a creamy pasta dish? This one is rich and full of garlic goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pasta of your choice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well-coated.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

2. Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta

For those who crave a bit of heat, this spicy arrabbiata pasta will not disappoint.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes, crushed
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta as per package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in the red pepper flakes, cook for another minute.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
6. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

3. Classic Carbonara

A traditional Italian favorite, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 4 oz pancetta, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and Pecorino Romano cheese.
3. In a skillet, cook the pancetta until crispy. Add the garlic and cook another minute.
4. Drain the pasta and return to the pot.
5. Quickly pour in the egg and cheese mixture, and toss vigorously.
6. Add the pancetta and garlic, stir well.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

4. Pesto Genovese Pasta

This vibrant green pasta is bursting with fresh basil flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb trofie or spaghetti pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cherry tomatoes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta as per the package instructions.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic.
3. Pulse until finely chopped.
4. Slowly add olive oil while the processor is running, until smooth.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce.
7. Garnish with fresh cherry tomatoes and serve.

5. Baked Ziti

Comfort food at its finest, this baked ziti is perfect for Boxing Day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet, simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix well.
6. Add cooked ziti and meat sauce to the bowl, stir to combine.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
9. Serve hot.

6. Shrimp Scampi Linguine

This elegant shrimp scampi linguine is surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp, cook until pink and opaque.
5. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Toss the cooked linguine in the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

7. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A vegetarian delight, these stuffed shells are rich, creamy, and totally satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 box jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture.
5. Spread half the marinara sauce in a baking dish.
6. Arrange the stuffed shells on top and cover with remaining sauce.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.

8. Sausage and Broccoli Orecchiette

This comforting pasta uses savory sausage and fresh broccoli for a delightful combination.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb orecchiette pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the orecchiette according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sausage, breaking into smaller pieces, cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Steam or blanch broccoli until tender, then add to the skillet.
6. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Toss the pasta in the skillet with sausage and broccoli.
8. Sprinkle with Pecorino Romano and serve.

9. Lobster Mac and Cheese

This luxurious take on mac and cheese includes succulent lobster pieces.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 2 lobster tails, cooked and chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, continue to whisk until smooth.
6. Gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring until melted.
7. Mix in the cooked macaroni and lobster pieces.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.

10. Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Rich and creamy without any dairy, this vegan mushroom stroganoff is a winner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 16 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onions and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic and mushrooms, cook until mushrooms are browned.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast.
7. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Toss the fettuccine in the sauce and garnish with parsley.

11. Turkey Tetrazzini

A great way to use up leftover turkey, this dish is creamy and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the spaghetti as per package directions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in flour, cook for 2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
6. Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stir until thick.
7. Mix in turkey and mushrooms.
8. Combine with cooked spaghetti and transfer to a baking dish.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

12. Clam Linguine

This classic seafood pasta pairs tender clams with a garlicky, buttery sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 3 dozen fresh clams, cleaned
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package directions.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Pour in white wine and bring to a boil.
5. Add clams and cover, cook until clams open (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Discard any clams that do not open.
7. Toss the cooked linguine in the pot.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

13. Chicken Alfredo

This creamy chicken Alfredo is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and chicken, cook until chicken is golden and cooked through.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

14. Butternut Squash Ravioli

Sweet and savory, these ravioli are perfect for a cozy holiday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 package butternut squash ravioli
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 10 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it turns brown and nutty.
3. Add sage leaves and cook until crispy.
4. Toss the cooked ravioli in the brown butter sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and serve.

15. Cajun Chicken Pasta

This spicy Cajun chicken pasta is packed with flavor and a touch of heat.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta as per package directions.
2. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until done.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. Add bell peppers to the skillet, sauté until softened.
6. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Mix chicken back in and toss the cooked penne with the sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

16. Ricotta Gnocchi

These soft and pillowy ricotta gnocchi are a delightful change from regular pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, flour, and Parmesan until a dough forms.
2. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a long rope.
3. Cut into small pieces and press with a fork to create ridges.
4. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
5. Drop the gnocchi in, cooking until they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve with your favorite sauce.

17. Beef Ragu Pappardelle

This rich and meaty beef ragu will warm you up on a cold holiday evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pappardelle pasta
• 1 lb beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the beef cubes over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until softened.
3. Pour in red wine, simmer until reduced by half.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
5. Simmer for 3 hours until beef is tender.
6. Cook pappardelle according to package directions.
7. Toss the pasta with the beef ragu.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

18. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

A simple but flavorful dish, this garlic and olive oil pasta is a classic.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until garlic is golden.
4. Toss the cooked spaghetti in the garlic oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

19. Alfredo Primavera

This vegetable-loaded Alfredo brings a burst of color and flavor to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup baby carrots, sliced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne as per package directions, adding vegetables in the last 2-3 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in heavy cream, bring to a simmer.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, stir until melted.
5. Toss pasta and vegetables in the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

20. Eggplant Parmesan Pasta

This dish combines the best of eggplant Parmesan with pasta for a delightful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 1 large eggplant, sliced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Lay the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 20 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
4. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions.
5. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, rig.
6. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, rigatoni, eggplant slices, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers.
7. Top with bread crumbs.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

21. Spinach and Feta Pasta

This light and fresh pasta dish combines the saltiness of feta with the earthiness of spinach.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with the spinach mixture.
7. Stir in crumbled feta cheese.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
9. Serve immediately.

22. Ham and Pea Farfalle

A great way to use up leftover ham, this farfalle pasta is delicious and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the farfalle according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add the diced ham and cook until slightly crispy.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and cook until heated through.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with the ham and pea mixture.
7. Stir in grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

23. Lemon Asparagus Pasta

A bright and zesty pasta dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 lemons, zest and juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions, adding the asparagus in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice and cook for another minute.
5. Toss the cooked pasta and asparagus in the lemon garlic oil.
6. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

24. Three-Cheese Manicotti

This cheesy and comforting dish is always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 package manicotti shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Arrange stuffed manicotti on top and cover with remaining sauce.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

25. Pumpkin Sage Pasta

This seasonal pasta dish is creamy and flavorful, perfect for a holiday special.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 10 fresh sage leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh nutmeg, grated

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree and heavy cream, bring to a simmer.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
6. Pan-fry sage leaves until crispy and set aside.
7. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg.
9. Garnish with crispy sage leaves and serve.

26. Seafood Fra Diavolo

Spicy and loaded with seafood, this pasta dish is a seafood lover's dream.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb sea scallops
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and white wine, bring to a simmer.
5. Add shrimp and sea scallops, cook until seafood is opaque.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Toss the cooked linguine in the sauce.
8. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

27. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

A creamy, vibrant dish featuring the rich flavor of roasted red peppers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta
• 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine roasted red peppers and heavy cream, blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
5. Pour in the red pepper sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Toss the cooked rigatoni in the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Conclusion

I hope you find as much joy in these 27 flavorful Boxing Day pasta recipes to try this holiday as I do. Whether you prefer classic comfort foods or daring new flavors, there's a pasta dish here to delight every palate. Happy cooking and happy holidays!