Easy Recipes That Start with a Jar of Pasta Sauce

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Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—easy, versatile, and always satisfying. Whether you’re craving something creamy, fresh, or hearty, these simple recipes make dinnertime delicious. From baked classics to one-pot favorites, there’s something here for every pasta lover.

Spaghetti Casserole with Meatballs

Spaghetti Casserole with Meatballs
Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

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This Spaghetti Casserole with Meatballs is classic comfort food baked into one bubbly, cheesy dish. Using jarred marinara makes prep quick and easy, and the result is a family favorite perfect for weeknights or potlucks.


GET THIS RECIPE: Spaghetti Casserole with Meatballs

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

This Parmesan Shrimp Pasta pairs succulent shrimp with a creamy tomato pasta sauce and tender noodles for a restaurant-worthy dinner in under 30 minutes. It’s elegant, satisfying, and easy enough for any night of the week.


GET THIS RECIPE: Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta

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Caramelized Onion Pasta

Caramelized Onion Pasta
Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

Sweet caramelized onions meet savory pasta sauce in this simple yet flavorful Caramelized Onion Penne. It’s a budget-friendly, vegetarian-friendly meal that’s anything but boring.

GET THIS RECIPE: Caramelized Onion Pasta

Lemony Ricotta Pasta

Lemony Ricotta Pasta
Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

This Lemony Ricotta Pasta uses a jarred lemony cream sauce (or a quick mix of jarred Alfredo and lemon) to create a fresh, zesty dish that’s light yet satisfying. With dollops of ricotta and a bright finish, it’s a perfect spring or summer pasta.

GET THIS RECIPE: Lemony Ricotta Pasta

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Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage

Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage
Image Credit: Busy Cooks

This hearty Baked Ziti with Sausage is loaded with flavor thanks to savory Italian sausage and a generous helping of jarred red sauce. It’s quick to prep, freezer-friendly, and ideal for feeding a crowd.

GET THIS RECIPE: Easy Baked Ziti with Sausage

Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato Basil Pasta

This Tomato Basil Pasta is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. Using jarred tomato basil sauce keeps it simple, while garlic and fresh herbs elevate the dish to something special.

GET THIS RECIPE: Tomato Basil Pasta

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Alfredo Pasta Bake

Alfredo Pasta Bake

This Alfredo Pasta Bake combines creamy jarred Alfredo sauce with noodles, cheese, and your favorite mix-ins for a cozy, oven-baked dinner. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly customizable.

GET THIS RECIPE: Alfredo Pasta Bake

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

Creamy and loaded with flavor, this Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Tortellini uses jarred sauce to create a slow-cooked meal that’s practically hands-off. With tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and spinach, it’s a complete meal in one pot.

GET THIS RECIPE: Crockpot Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

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Creamy White Wine Scallops Pasta

Creamy White Wine Scallops Pasta

This Creamy White Wine Scallops Pasta feels fancy but is surprisingly simple with the help of a creamy jarred sauce base. Paired with seared scallops and a splash of white wine, it’s date-night worthy with weeknight ease.

GET THIS RECIPE: Creamy White Wine Scallops Pasta

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Trader Joe’s Crackers

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Trader Joe’s Crackers
Image Credit: A Paige of Positivity

A cozy twist on classic mac, this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese starts with a jarred butternut squash sauce and gets topped with crispy, buttery crackers. It’s a creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet comfort dish with major fall vibes.

GET THIS RECIPE: Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese with Trader Joe’s Crackers

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Meet Christina

Woman in red blouse slicing lemons in a kitchen setting.

Hi there, it’s nice to meet you!  I’m a recipe developer, author, TV contributor and recipe hoarder that shares tried and true recipes anyone can make.  It Is a Keeper started in 2010 as a hobby that quickly grew.  Spending time in the kitchen has always made me happy – whether I’m making an old favorite that I know by heart or trying a new recipe. You can learn more about me here

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