17 Delicious Pasta Side Dishes for Steak and Beyond

Pasta Side Dishes kept coming to mind the moment my roommates and I admitted we were exhausted from eating the same bowls of noodles night after night, and the problem felt almost funny because I had just mentioned my article about Cookout Side Dishes For A Crowd.

Somehow, I could help people plan meals for big gatherings but could not fix dinner in my own kitchen. We needed something different, something fresh, and something that reminded us why pasta ever felt exciting in the first place.

Ideas started pouring in, and each one felt like a tiny rescue. Some talked about garlic bread paired with pan-fried broccoli that turned crunchy and golden with high heat and a splash of lemon, and suddenly, vegetables sounded almost luxurious.

Others shared roasted trays of zucchini, pepper, mushrooms, onions, and asparagus seasoned with herbs that made simple pasta feel like a complete dinner again. I even read stories of lemon zest citrus tricks and how fast frying broccoli locks in flavor, and it made me want to try everything at once.

In the end, the solution was realizing that Pasta Side Dishes do not need to be complicated to be satisfying, and we finally made a simple mix of sautéed vegetables, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan served next to our pasta that transformed the whole meal. The room fell quiet except for forks scraping plates, and for the first time in two weeks, we loved dinner again.

17. Simple Lemon Herb Orzo Pasta Side Dishes

This lemon herb orzo is a perfect light complement and one of the freshest Pasta Side Dishes because the small rice-shaped pasta is tossed with a bright dressing of lemon zest olive oil and fresh herbs thus it offers a delicate flavor that doesn’t overwhelm the steak allowing the main course to shine so this quick and easy side is ready in minutes making it ideal for busy weeknights and it is a delightful addition to your collection of Pasta Side Dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the orzo pasta in the broth according to package directions and then drain any excess liquid.
2. In a medium bowl combine the warm cooked orzo with the olive oil lemon zest chopped parsley and dried oregano.
3. Toss gently to coat and then season the pasta side dishes well with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately or chill for a cold pasta salad option.

16. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Shells Pasta Side Dishes

This indulgent side dish is one of the richest Pasta Side Dishes because small pasta shells are coated in a velvety sauce made from heavy cream minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese thus the richness of the sauce is a wonderful contrast to the savory steak providing a comforting satisfying bite so this quick side is ready in minutes and it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone will love among these excellent Pasta Side Dishes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz small pasta shells uncooked
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup milk optional to thin the sauce
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions and then drain and set aside.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and then cook for 3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth and then add milk if the sauce is too thick and then season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss the cooked pasta shells with the creamy sauce and then serve immediately topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

15. Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Pasta Salad

This cold pasta salad is a bright zesty option for your Pasta Side Dishes because cooked rotini or penne is tossed with sun-dried tomatoes crumbled feta cheese Kalamata olives and a simple vinaigrette thus the bold Mediterranean flavors offer a refreshing tangy counterpoint to the steak’s rich flavor so this side is great for making ahead and serving chilled making it perfect for summer barbecues and simple weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta uncooked
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil drained and sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
• Dressing: 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
2. In a large bowl whisk together the olive oil red wine vinegar and dried oregano to make the dressing and then season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the cooled pasta sun-dried tomatoes feta cheese olives and red onion to the bowl and then toss gently to combine everything.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and then serve the chilled Pasta Side Dishes.

14. Pesto Pasta with Roasted Pine Nuts

The bold herbaceous flavor of pesto makes this one of the most vibrant Pasta Side Dishes because cooked pasta is simply coated in basil pesto and tossed with toasted pine nuts and a sprinkle of Parmesan thus the fresh basil and garlic in the pesto provide a welcome contrast to the beef’s savory flavor so this dish is incredibly quick to prepare and it adds a touch of Italian flair to your dinner making it an easy favorite among Pasta Side Dishes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spiral or fusilli pasta uncooked
• 1/2 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
• 1/4 cup pine nuts lightly toasted
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Return the warm pasta to the pot and then add the basil pesto and olive oil and then toss until the pasta is fully coated.
3. If the sauce is too thick add a splash of the reserved pasta water and then toss again.
4. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese and then season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately as a flavorful accompaniment to your steak.

13. Cheesy Baked Ziti Side

This baked ziti offers a hearty comforting option for your Pasta Side Dishes because ziti pasta is baked in a simple tomato sauce and layered with a blend of cheeses until bubbly and golden brown thus this side is rich and savory and it provides a great textural contrast to the tender steak so while it takes longer to bake the prep is simple and the comforting results are well worth the effort for a filling side dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz ziti or penne pasta uncooked
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until slightly underdone and then drain it.
2. Preheat your oven to $375^\circ\text{F}$ and then lightly grease a small casserole dish.
3. In a bowl mix the cooked ziti with the tomato sauce ricotta cheese Parmesan cheese dried basil salt and pepper and then stir well.
4. Spread half of the ziti mixture into the prepared dish and then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Top with the remaining ziti mixture and then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is hot.

12. Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil Capellini

This simple capellini is a classic Italian preparation that serves as one of the lightest most elegant Pasta Side Dishes because angel hair pasta is tossed with fragrant roasted garlic fresh parsley and good quality olive oil thus the simplicity of the dish highlights the delicate texture of the Pasta Side Dishes and the sweet mellow flavor of the roasted garlic so this sophisticated side enhances the steak without competing with its flavor and it is ready in no time.

Ingredients

• 8 oz capellini or angel hair pasta uncooked
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced or 1 head roasted garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the capellini according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over low heat and then add the sliced or roasted garlic and red pepper flakes and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Toss the cooked capellini into the skillet and then add the reserved pasta water and chopped parsley.
4. Toss until the sauce lightly coats the pasta and then season well with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

11. Mushroom and Thyme Tagliatelle

This savory side dish uses the earthiness of mushrooms making it one of the most complementary Pasta Side Dishes for steak because tender tagliatelle pasta is tossed with sautéed mushrooms fresh thyme and a touch of butter or olive oil thus the earthy umami flavor of the mushrooms naturally pairs well with beef creating a cohesive flavor profile so this quick warm side feels gourmet and is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 oz tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta uncooked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat and then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until they are softened and nicely browned.
3. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and then season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water to the skillet and then toss to coat the pasta with the mushroom sauce.
5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

10. Cold Dill and Cucumber Pasta Side Dishes

For a refreshing twist on Pasta Side Dishes this cold dill and cucumber option is light creamy and incredibly fresh because bow tie pasta is mixed with diced cucumber fresh dill and a light yogurt or sour cream-based dressing thus the coolness of the cucumber and the herbaceous flavor of the dill provide a wonderful cleansing contrast to the richness of the steak so this side is perfect for summer dining and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Ingredients

• 8 oz farfalle or bow tie pasta uncooked
• 1 large cucumber diced
• 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped
• 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
2. In a medium bowl whisk together the sour cream mayonnaise white wine vinegar and chopped dill to make the creamy dressing.
3. Add the cooled pasta and diced cucumber to the bowl and then toss gently to combine and coat the pasta.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and then chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

9. Spicy Aglio e Olio with Spaghetti

This classic Italian dish is one of the boldest yet simplest Pasta Side Dishes because spaghetti is tossed in hot olive oil minced garlic and a generous amount of red pepper flakes thus the heat from the pepper flakes and the pungent garlic flavor give a fiery kick that stands up well to a hearty steak so despite its simplicity this side dish is packed with flavor and it is ready in less time than it takes to cook the steak.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti uncooked
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt

Directions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over low heat and then add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook gently until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant and then do not burn the garlic.
3. Toss the cooked spaghetti and chopped parsley into the skillet and then add the reserved pasta water and toss quickly.
4. Season with salt to taste and then serve immediately for a spicy flavorful side.

8. Simple Roasted Tomato and Basil Cavatappi

This side dish celebrates simple fresh Italian flavors making it one of the most delightful Pasta Side Dishes because cavatappi pasta is tossed with sweet roasted cherry tomatoes fresh basil and a light olive oil sauce thus the burst of sweetness from the roasted tomatoes and the aroma of the fresh basil complement the savory steak beautifully so this easy side is perfect for a summer meal and it is ready quickly.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cavatappi or spiral pasta uncooked
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to $400^\circ\text{F}$ and then toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil salt and pepper and then roast for 15 minutes until softened and slightly blistered.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
3. In a large bowl combine the warm pasta the roasted tomatoes the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped basil.
4. Toss gently adding reserved pasta water if needed and then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately with your main course.

7. Lighter Sesame Noodle Salad

For an Asian-inspired side this sesame noodle salad is one of the most interesting Pasta Side Dishes because cold spaghetti or linguine is coated in a savory-sweet dressing made from soy sauce sesame oil honey and ginger thus the bold tangy flavor and the chewy noodle texture offer a unique contrast to the steak so this refreshing side is served cold making it perfect for preparing ahead of time and serving alongside grilled meats.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or linguine pasta uncooked
• Dressing: 3 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted
• Salt

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
2. In a small bowl whisk together the soy sauce rice vinegar sesame oil honey and grated fresh ginger to make the dressing.
3. In a large bowl combine the cooled pasta chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and then toss well to ensure the pasta is fully coated.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving this cold flavorful side dish.

6. Bacon and Cheddar Macaroni Salad

This creamy rich side dish is a comforting classic among cold Pasta Side Dishes because elbow macaroni is mixed with crispy bacon pieces sharp cheddar cheese diced celery and a creamy mayonnaise dressing thus the savory smoky bacon flavor pairs exceptionally well with a hearty steak providing a familiar comforting element so this is a crowd-pleasing side that is easy to make and serve chilled and Pasta Side Dishes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
• 4 slices bacon cooked crisp and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions and then drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
2. In a large bowl whisk together the mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing and then season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the cooled macaroni crumbled bacon shredded cheddar cheese and chopped celery to the bowl and then toss gently until everything is evenly combined and coated.
4. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to fully meld.

5. Creamy Lemon Ricotta Orecchiette

This elegant simple Pasta Side Dishes makes for a sophisticated choice among creamy Pasta Side Dishes because orecchiette pasta is tossed in a light sauce made from creamy ricotta cheese fresh lemon zest and a touch of reserved pasta water thus the bright citrus notes and the delicate creaminess of the ricotta provide a beautiful fresh balance to the richness of the steak so this quick side feels light yet satisfying and it is ready in a snap.

Ingredients

• 8 oz orecchiette pasta uncooked
• 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. In a large bowl combine the ricotta cheese olive oil lemon zest and Parmesan cheese and then mix gently.
3. Add the warm cooked pasta to the bowl and then pour in the reserved pasta water and then toss quickly until the sauce becomes creamy and coats the pasta.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and then serve immediately garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

4. Spicy Peanut Noodle Side

For a unique Asian-inspired flavor this spicy peanut noodle side is one of the most distinctive Pasta Side Dishes because linguine or spaghetti is coated in a rich creamy sauce made from peanut butter soy sauce lime juice and a touch of chili heat thus the bold nutty spicy and tangy flavors offer a complex contrast to the simple savory flavor of the steak so this side is great served warm or cold and it is guaranteed to add excitement to your meal and Pasta Side Dishes.

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti pasta uncooked
• Sauce: 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 3 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• Lime wedges for serving

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
2. In a medium bowl whisk together the peanut butter soy sauce rice vinegar honey and sriracha until the sauce is smooth.
3. Add the warm cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water to the bowl and then toss thoroughly to coat the pasta completely with the peanut sauce.
4. Stir in the chopped scallions and then serve immediately or chill and serve cold for a different take on these Pasta Side Dishes.

3. Baked Feta and Cherry Tomato Pasta

Inspired by a viral trend this baked feta and tomato Pasta Side Dishes serves as one of the simplest and most flavorful warm Pasta Side Dishes because cherry tomatoes and a block of feta are baked with olive oil until soft and melted and then the mixture is tossed with cooked Pasta Side Dishes and fresh basil thus the resulting sauce is creamy tangy and incredibly savory making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled or pan-seared steak.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of choice uncooked
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 4 oz block of feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to $400^\circ\text{F}$ and then place the cherry tomatoes and feta block in a small baking dish.
2. Drizzle the tomatoes and feta generously with olive oil and then season with salt and pepper and then sprinkle the minced garlic over the tomatoes.
3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the feta is soft and slightly golden.
4. While baking cook the pasta according to package directions and then reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
5. Immediately mash the baked feta and tomatoes with a fork to create a creamy sauce and then toss the warm pasta and torn basil leaves into the baking dish and then mix well.
6. Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish.

2. Italian Pesto and Asparagus Farfalle

This simple fresh side is one of the most aesthetically pleasing Pasta Side Dishes because bow tie pasta is tossed with green pesto tender asparagus spears and sun-dried tomatoes. Thus the combination of vibrant green pesto and the crisp-tender asparagus creates a delicious light contrast to the rich steak so this quick side is perfect for a spring or summer meal and it is easy to assemble.

Ingredients

• 8 oz farfalle or bow tie pasta uncooked
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and then add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
2. Drain the pasta and asparagus together and then return them to the pot.
3. Add the basil pesto sliced sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil to the pot and then toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature for a fresh side.

1. Ultimate Creamy Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese

For an unparalleled indulgence this truffle oil mac and cheese is the most decadent of all Pasta Side Dishes because classic elbow macaroni is submerged in a rich creamy three-cheese sauce and finished with a drizzle of luxurious truffle oil thus the earthy aroma and intense flavor of the truffle elevate the simple mac and Pasta Side Dishes cheese to a gourmet side that is the perfect match for a high-quality steak so this Pasta Side Dishes is truly a showstopper for any special occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni uncooked
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon truffle oil
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional for topping
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions and then drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to $375^\circ\text{F}$ if baking and then melt the butter in a saucepan and then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and then bring it to a gentle simmer and then cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the Gruyère white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth and then stir in the truffle oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and then pour the mixture into a casserole dish and top with panko breadcrumbs if desired.
6. Bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown and then serve immediately as a truly luxurious side.

Conclusion

These 17 delicious Pasta Side Dishes offer endless possibilities for enhancing your main course because whether you prefer the light freshness of the Lemon Herb Orzo or the rich indulgence of the Creamy Truffle Oil Mac and Cheese a perfect Pasta Side Dishes is pairing for every steak and every occasion thus embracing these Pasta Side Dishes means transforming your regular dinner into an exciting satisfying culinary event so we hope this extensive list provides inspiration and Pasta Side Dishes variety for your meal planning so please consider subscribing to my blog for more detailed cooking guides and delicious new Pasta Side Dishes.