29 May 2024

Lemon Dill Pasta Bake

Last Updated on 23 August, 2026 by Elby | The Tasteful Pantry

Lemon dill pasta bake is quick, easy and the perfect recipe for using up leftover dill and lemon. A comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s ready in less than an hourgreat option for busy nights. A creamy and cheesy sauce with citrusy lemon and fragrant dill. The fresh herb and citrus flavours are balanced beautifully with the rich creamy sauce. Definitely a comfort food. 😉

The lemon dill pasta bake recipe came about after looking for dinner inspiration in the fridge (ie. staring blankly for quite a while). Pasta is often my go to for moments like these. The kids love it and there is always some version of pasta that can be whipped up with ingredients from the fridge and pantry. And on this occasion, with a cut lemon in the fridge and leftover dill it seemed like the perfect combination. Check out my other lemon recipes for some alternate, but equally delicious ways of using up that leftover lemon.

Other Easy Pasta Recipes and Dill Dishes

How to Make Lemon Dill Pasta Bake

This recipe originated from some leftover dill and lemon sitting in the fridge. So rather than waste, obviously a pasta bake was the solution!

Lemon: Adds a refreshing twist and complements the dill.

Dill: Livens and lifts the creamy pasta – making the dish feel somewhat lighter.

Pasta Bake Casserole dish: You can use any shaped casserole dish. Or if you want to make this meal a One Pan | One Pot wonder, use a casserole dish that works both on the stovetop and in the oven.
Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to packet instructions. Set aside. Short pasta is best and any shape.
Garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat and cook the garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Base sauce: Remove from the heat and gradually whisk in the milk. Return to the heat and stir until the sauce thickens.
Flavour: Stir in the cream, 1 cup cheese, dill, lemon, stock cube, salt and pepper. Once the cheese has melted return the pasta to the pan and stir to coat all pasta.
Bake: Pour into the prepared dish and sprinkle with the extra cheese. Cook for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden.

lemon dill pasta bake with a golden melted cheese top

Serving Suggestions

This lemon and dill pasta bake is versatile and pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad, roasted potatoes and pumpkin blue cheese salad. For an added burst of flavour, sprinkle extra fresh dill on top of the bake just before before serving.

Not only is this lemon and dill pasta bake full of flavour, but it’s also an easy dish to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your macaroni cheese with minimal effort.

Pasta Bake FAQs

What pasta works best for pasta bake?

Short pasta shapes such as penne, macaroni, fusilli or rigatoni are ideal because they hold onto the creamy lemon dill sauce.

Can I add protein to lemon dill pasta bake?

Absolutely. Cooked chicken or tinned tuna pair wonderfully with the lemon and dill flavours. It is also a brilliant way to use up leftover cooked chicken or half a can of tuna from the fridge.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?

You can. Although fresh dill gives the best flavour, you can add a quarter of the amount of dried if that’s all you have.

Can I make lemon dill pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pasta bake, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge to ensure it’s heated through.

Feedback and More: Did you try the lemon dill pasta bake recipe? Let me know how it was with a star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or comment below. Cheers, Elby!

If you liked this recipe, check out some of my other delicious pasta recipes and pasta bakes. Also, follow The Tasteful Pantry on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for all the latest recipes and info.