36 Easy Pasta Recipes Your Taste Buds Will Fall In Love With

Aug 23, 2023

The way to my heart — or at least my taste buds — is an easy pastarecipe. I don't care how many times I eat it, pasta will always be one of my favorite comforting dinner choices. Anyone who says pasta dishes boring hasn't factored in the countless ways it can be cooked. Pumpkin pasta is one of my favorites, but you also can't go wrong when you serve it with cheese, veggies, or plain old butter.

For a unique and yummy twist on a beloved meal, add these 27 easy pasta recipes into your meal prep rotation. You taste buds will thank you.

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

Image via Brit + Co

Summer technically isn't over yet but we're already eyeing fall comfort food recipes like this pumpkin pecan pasta. The pecans add a nice texture if you're going meatless for the week.

When paired with the cheesy pumpkin flavor, the overall effect is a creamy dish that satisfies your taste bud's cravings.

Skillett BBQ Mac and Cheese

Image via Brit + Co

Can't get enough of Mac and Cheese but need a new take on it? Try baking the skillet barbecue version of it.

Once you combine sharp cheddar cheese with barbecue sauce and Hickory BBQ Chips, you'll wonder why you never baked this easy pasta recipe before!

Baked Pasta with Ground Turkey

Image via Feel Good Foodie

A good pasta bake recipe is filled with flavor and and can be the comforting meal you need after a long day. To create the extra creamy effect in this dish, don't be afraid to add a generous amount of mozzarella cheese!

Sausage Meatball and Pumpkin Pasta

Image via Vikalinka

This kid-approved dish gets its creaminess from chicken stock, pumpkin puree, and a dash of Parmesan cheese. It's a clever alternative for your loved ones who may not like heavy whipping cream. (via Vikalinka)

Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Image via Give Recipe

This heartwarming dish is as tasty as it healthy. Filled with ingredients like mint and sun dried tomatoes, it'll be a hit if you're looking for a lightweight yet filling meal. (via Give Recipe)

Parmesean Pesto Chicken and Pasta

Image via Averie Cooks

Ready in just 20 minutes, this Parmesan pesto chicken and pasta dish will leave you wanting seconds or thirds. Plus, the pasta is al dente which adds a whole extra (metaphorical) layer to the dinner experience. It's going to easily become your favoritefamily meals. (via Averie Cooks)

Grilled Summer Vegetable Pasta Primavera

Image via Whole and Heavenly Oven

Craving the perfect summer dish? This pasta primavera features yummy grilled summer vegetables and only takes 20 minutes to make. It's for sure going on my list of 20 easy summer recipes to make. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Taco Pasta

Image via Two Peas & Their Pod

Instead of relying on your usual meal of tacos on Taco Tuesday, why not try this taco pasta instead? This yummy meal combines two comfort meals to bring you a taste you'll want more of. (viaTwo Peas & Their Pod)

Easy Cream Cheese Pasta

Image via The Fast Recipe

You don't have to break the bank to create a good pasta dish — trust us. This cream cheese pasta is incredibly filling and comforting, which is definitely what we're looking for in a meal. (viaThe Fast Recipe)

Bruschetta Pasta

Image via Bowl of Delicious

This is another easy pasta recipe that doesn't take long to cook and serve. With ingredients like basil and garlic, your taste buds will love the sweet blend of flavors each time you take a bite. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Chicken Fusilli Pasta

Image via Where is My Spoon

Kids of all ages will love this pasta dish, and you'll be glad you decided to make it! With only six ingredients, you'll save money without skimping on taste. (viaWhere is My Spoon)

Zucchini Pasta Carbonara With Shrimp

Image via The Real Food Dietitians

Some pasta can leave you feeling weighed down. This recipe is not one of those — it's the low-carb summer meal you need in your life. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Vegan Dirty Martini Pasta

Image via The Edgy Veg

If you're not one to pass up a good dirty martini, you'll fall in love with this vegan pasta recipe. (via The Edgy Veg)

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Image via The Girl on Bloor

A good mushroomdish has the power to turn any frown upside down. That may sound ambitious but not when it comes to this one-pot pasta dish. (via The Girl on Bloor)

Garlic Butter Shrimp Angel Hair Pasta and Spaghetti Squash with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Image via No Eggs or Ham

The delicate, lightweight nature of angel hair pasta makes it the perfect choice for this garlic butter shrimp pasta dish. (via No Eggs or Ham)

Chicken Parmesean Pasta Skillet

Image via Completely Delicious

Skillet meals are another one of B+C's go-to dishes, especially when they involve Parmesan cheese and toasted breadcrumbs. Enter: this chicken Parmesan pasta skillet meal. (via Completely Delicious)

Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Image via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

If you're having a hard time getting your recommended serving of veggies, add this creamy broccoli pasta into the mix. That way you can get some greens and savor the blend of garlic and Italian seasoning at the same time. (via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog)

Vegan Pasta e Fagioli

Image via Gastroplant

If you're ready ready for fall, swap your tomato pasta recipes for a vegan pasta e fagioli. It's filled with beans and sausage for a double dose of protein. (via Gastroplant)

Pasta Bolognese

Image via Feel Good Foodie

This bolognese pasta is made with lean ground beef and is sure to become a staple in your home. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Spicy Pesto Pasta Alla Vodka

Image via Tieghan Gerard/Half Baked Harvest

This is one easy pasta recipe you'll want to make every single week. The silky and smooth texture, coupled with flavorful basil pesto, will leave you wondering why you didn't cook it sooner. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Image via Two Spoons

The pappardelle noodles, cremini mushrooms, and tamari are going to make you think twice about eating pasta any other way. (via Two Spoons)

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Image via Cozy Cravings

Roasted garlic sure knows how to lure us in but we're not complaining. Along with fresh basil and white wine, you'll love making this on the weekend. (via Cozy Cravings)

Smoked Salmon Pasta

Image via The Endless Meal

If you love salmondishes, then you *have* to make this smoked salmon pasta filled with artichoke hearts and capers. (via The Endless Meal)

Creamy Vegan Pesto Pasta

Image via Munching With Mariyah

Pestolovers will be more than happy to help you devour this creamy vegan pesto pasta. (via Munching With Mariyah)

Creamy Summer Pasta with Fresh Corn, Zucchini & Burrata

Image via Barley and Sage

Corn is something that we can always eat and if you feel the same, take a peek at this creamy summer pasta. Fresh corn, zucchini and burrata, oh my! (via Barley and Sage)

Short Rib Ragu

Image via Most Hungry

If you didn't know you could put short ribs in pasta, Most Hungry wants you to know you absolutely can. Just remember to choose a smaller piece of meat if you decide to make this dish! (via Most Hungry)

Turkey Meatballs (Paleo + Whole30)

Image via Olive You Whole

Spaghetti and meatballs may be a traditional pasta dinner, but you can change things up when you sub beef for turkey. (via Olive You Whole)

Artichoke Pasta

Image via Culinary Hill

If you have a love/hate relationship with artichokes, this pasta dish will win you over with its buttery lemon flavor. (via Culinary Hill)

Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta

Image via Veggie Society

Before cherry tomato season ends, make sure you try this pasta dish! (viaVeggie Society)

Jamaican Chicken Rasta Pasta

Image via A Spicy Perspective

Ah, if it isn't social media's lovable Rasta pasta. This incredibly comforting and filling dish will make your taste buds scream "WOW," thanks to its bell peppers, rich cheeses, and curry seasoning. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Creamy Brussels Sprouts Pasta {With Bacon}

Image The Girl On Bloor

Overhaul your relationship with Brussel Sprouts with this creamy pasta meal. With a savory blend of garlic, lemon and chili flakes, you'll look forward to eating leftovers.

Tagliatelle With Truffle Sauce

Image via Vikalinka by Julia Frey

Let the luxurious taste of truffles and freshly grated Parmesean cheese tantalize your senses. If you're feeling inspired, play Nicki Minaj's "Truffle Butter" in the background.

French Onion Pasta

Image via Crowded Kitchen

Lovers of French onion soup will be glad to know they can eat it in pasta form. You still all the yummy perks of the soup - caramelized onions and crispy breadcrumb topping - but the prep work is less of a headache. Thank us later!

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Image via Completely Delicious

If isn't obvious, we adore one-pot meals like this Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet dish. Don't be surprised if your neighbors come knocking once they get a whiff of the creamy blend of Paremesan cheese, toasted breadcrumbs and marinara sauce.

Vegan Vodka Sauce Pasta

Image via A Virtual Vegan

If you want a vegan-friendly option of the above spicy pesto alla vodka dish, reach for this recipe. It doesn't require any heavy whipping cream but you'll still have a velvety meal.

Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Image via Pink Owl Kitchen

Turn to this Louisiana-inspired jambalaya pasta for a spicy weeknight dinner.

Which easy pasta recipe are you going to try tonight? Let us know in the comments and check out our Pinterest for more delicious dishes!

This post has been updated.

Header image via The Edgy Veg

41 Thanksgiving-Approved Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipes

When it comes to Thanksgiving, everyone usually knows who's making what. Grandma handles her famous desserts. Your aunt always comes in clutch with the green bean casserole. And your cousin can (sometimes) be relied upon to bring the plates everyone likes – you know, the big platters with the separated sections, so the food doesn't touch. But what happens when the mac and cheese person is at their in-laws for Thanksgiving? You take a few deep breaths, open up Safari, and start googling for the best mac and cheese recipe that you can find.

So, now you're here.

Sure, it would be a lot easier to call that person up for the recipe, but it's your time now. And since you're the holiday underdog this year, we've supplied a few recipes that are sure to earn you that permanent "mac and cheese person" position.

Let's get into the cheesy stuff.

Brit + Co

Basil Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese

Have a significant other, friend, or child who refuses to eat Brussels sprouts? This is an easy way to sneak it into a meal. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mac and Cheese Muffins

This is the all-time best way to serve mac and cheese to a crowd. No messy baking dish, just individual portions that guests can serve themselves. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Microwave Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Short on time? Whip up this easy, delicious mac and cheese recipe in your microwave. We’d even serve it for a dinner party. Your guests will have no idea the oven stayed off. (via Brit + Co)

The Kitchn

Big-Hearted Mac and Cheese with Artichokes

Artichoke hearts give the perfect salty, briny tang to a mac and cheese recipe. What can we say? We heart it. (via The Kitchn)

Smitten Kitchen

Easiest Baked Macaroni and Cheese

We love recipes with surprising ingredients, and this mac and cheese does not disappoint. The key to its creamy goodness? Cottage cheese! Who knew? (via Smitten Kitchen)

A Beautiful Mess

Baked Macaroni

We’d make this mac and cheese solely on the basis that it’s baked in a cast iron skillet. Comfort food to the max! (via A Beautiful Mess)

Shutterbean

Sweet Peas and Shells Alfredo

Let’s be honest, Alfredo is just another name for mac and cheese. It might be a bit classier, but it’s basically the same thing. (via Shutterbean)

Love & Lemons

Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you’re sensitive to dairy, but can’t give up on this dish, try this version. We promise you won’t miss the milk! (via Love & Lemons)

Vikalinka

Layered Italian Baked Mac and Cheese

Say "ciao" to ordinary mac and cheese! These Italian-inspired layers bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table, making it a cheesy masterpiece worth savoring. (via Vikalinka)

Naturally Ella

Vegetarian Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

We can’t wait to try this extreme twist on classic mac and cheese. We’re betting the pumpkin will pair perfectly with the traditional ingredients. (via Naturally Ella)

Vikalinka

Brie Bacon Macaroni and Cheese

Classy meets comfort in this recipe that pairs the sophistication of brie with the irresistible crunch of bacon. It's a match made in mac and cheese heaven. (via Vikalinka)

How Sweet Eats

Easy Beer Mac and Cheese

Yes, you read that right — beer in mac and cheese. We're guessing this is going to be a game day favorite all through football season. (via How Sweet Eats)

How Sweet Eats

Roasted Summer Vegetable Mac and Cheese

Channel summer with this deliciously crispy mac and cheese recipe. All those veggies make it health food in our book. (via How Sweet Eats)

Food52

Lightly Cheddared Spinach Ricotta Mac and Cheese

If you don’t like heavy mac and cheeses, try this version made mostly with ricotta, and just a sprinkling of cheddar on top. (via Food52)

Table for Two

Lobster & Shrimp Mac and Cheese

The buttery lobster and shrimp make this version of mac and cheese incredibly decadent. (via Table for Two)

Turntable Kitchen

Truffled Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

Something about adding truffle oil makes a basic mac and cheese recipe seem more grown-up. Making it with whole wheat pasta doesn’t hurt either. (via Turntable Kitchen)

Completely Delicious

Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Because sometimes, you just can't beat a classic. This baked mac and cheese recipe brings you the timeless flavors you know and love, baked to perfection. (via Completely Delicious)

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Roasted Red Pepper Harissa Mac and Cheese

Spice up your mac game with the bold flavors of roasted red pepper and harissa. It's a fiery twist that'll have your taste buds dancing in delight. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

The Girl On Bloor

Creamiest Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Set it, forget it, and come home to a pot full of pure comfort. This slow-cooked sensation is the epitome of creamy dreams, making it the perfect fix for your laziest (and cheesiest) days. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Vikalinka

Cheddar And Gruyere Mac and Cheese with Polish Kielbasa

Add a kick to your mac with this savory twist. The combo of cheddar, gruyere, and Polish kielbasa creates a total flavor explosion. (via Vikalinka)

The Kitchy Kitchen

Bacon & Pea Mac and Cheese

Adding bacon and peas to your favorite mac and cheese recipe makes it a full meal instantly. Well, maybe you need a side salad, too. (via The Kitchy Kitchen)

Averie Cooks

Easy 30-Minute Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese

Short on time, but craving a bowl of cheesy goodness? Look no further! This lightning-fast stovetop version guarantees a speedy fix without sacrificing flavor. (via Averie Cooks)

The Edgy Veg

Vegan Southwest-Inspired Mac and Cheese

Even the most cheese-loving person will be reaching for seconds with this Southwest-inspired vegan masterpiece. It's so good, you won't believe it's dairy-free! (via The Edgy Veg)

Food52

Smoky Bacon Mac and Cheese

Clearly we can’t get enough bacon. Can you blame us? (via Food52)

Always Order Dessert

Creamy Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

If you want a fall flavor, but pumpkin isn’t your thing, try this butternut squash version. It’s just as tasty! (via Always Order Dessert)

Kirbie’s Cravings

Bacon Macaroni and Cheese Balls

A bit more labor intensive than the macaroni muffins, these mac and cheese balls are worth it for the crispy fried exterior. Oh, right, and they have bacon. (via Kirbie’s Cravings)

How Sweet Eats

Blue Cheese Mac and Cheese

This recipe has that distinct funky tang that could only come from blue cheese. It might not be for everyone, but we love it.(via How Sweet Eats)

The Kitchn

One-Bowl Microwave Macaroni and Cheese

If you still believe the boxed mac is best, but want to give up all the processed ingredients, make this microwave recipe. It’s healthier, so you don’t have to feel bad eating it. (via The Kitchn)

The Girl On Bloor

White Cheddar Truffle Mac and Cheese

Elevate your mac game with the decadent duo of white cheddar and truffles. This dish is so posh, it might just outshine your favorite little black dress at the next dinner party. (via The Girl On Bloor)

Averie Cooks

Creamy Vermont Mac and Cheese

Take your taste buds on a journey to Vermont with this creamy concoction. Loaded with the finest cheeses, it's a trip to dairy heaven without ever leaving your kitchen. (via Averie Cooks)

Vikalinka

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping

Crunchy, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying. This baked mac and cheese takes the classic to new heights with a golden breadcrumb topping that'll have your guests fighting for the last spoonful. (via Vikalinka)

Clean Cuisine

Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Sometimes simple is best. This classic homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, bringing you back to the basics with every creamy bite. (via Clean Cuisine)

The Edgy Veg

Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Butternut squash takes center stage in this vegan twist on the classic mac. Creamy, dreamy, and entirely plant-based, it's comfort food without the guilt! (via The Edgy Veg)

The Real Food Dietitians

Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Up your veggie intake with this cauliflower-packed mac and cheese recipe. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Kurry Leaves

Spicy Macaroni and Cheese

Along with a host of veggies, chili powder gives this cheesy recipe an extra kick. (via Kurry Leaves)

The Real Food Dietitians

Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese

For our lactose-intolerant friends, fear not! This dairy-free delight proves that you don't need milk to create a bowl of cheesy perfection. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Shutterbean

Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower

Another veggie that’s easy to disguise in mac and cheese? Cauliflower! When it’s baked, it has almost the same consistency as the noodles. (via Shutterbean)

Food52

Mediterranean Mac and Cheese

Adding in chickpeas and onions gives this recipe some Mediterranean flair. You could also use couscous instead of elbow macaroni. (via Food52)

Lauren’s Latest

Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese with Bacon

It wouldn’t be fall without the addition of pumpkin to every single recipe, ever! Luckily, this pumpkin mac and cheese is good enough to enjoy year-round. (via Lauren’s Latest)

Completely Delicious

Chicken Broccoli Macaroni and Cheese

Get your protein fix with this hearty variation. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy goodness make for a mac and cheese meal that's both comforting and substantial. (via Completely Delicious)

Averie Cooks

20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

This speedy stovetop recipe proves that luxury can be served in under 20 minutes — because there's no time to wait when mac and cheese is on the menu! (via Averie Cooks)

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This article has been updated.

24 Cozy 'Gilmore Girls' Gifts For Anyone Who'd Rather Be In Stars Hollow

If there's one thing about Gilmore Girls fans you can count on, it's their passion. They love the quirky one liners, memorable moments, and are usually either Team Jess or Team Logan (sorry Dean...). Give any Gilmore Girls lover in your life the chance to transport themselves to Stars Hollow this holiday season — without having to make the trek to Washington, Connecticut or the Warner Bros. stage in Hollywood. These Gilmore Girls gift ideas are fun, thoughtful, and very cozy, which are also three hallmarks of the series itself! From a coffee mug that Luke Danes would approve of to the perfect gifts for Taylor Swift fans, this Gilmore Girlsgift guide will make you say "Oy with the poodles already!"

Now that we're in knee-high boot season (which I FINALLY bought), I like to wear super fun, colorful, and chaotic socks. Grab a pack of Gilmore Girls socks to take some Stars Hollow magic with you no matter where you go.

Etsy

Gilmore Girls Themed Blind Date with a Book

For this bookish blind date, you'll receive a Rory-themed read, a tea bag, a bookmark, and stickers. You really can't go wrong.

Favorite Child

Stars Hollow Books Tote Bag

Carrying your favorite books in a tote bag with the Stars Hollow Books logo feels like it's meant to be.

Amazon

Have I Told You This Already?: Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember

Lauren Graham's collection of essays will give you a glimpse behind the curtain as she offers thoughtful stories about life, aging, and the industry.

Which gifts from this Gilmore Girls gift guide will you be buying for your friends (or yourself)? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

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38 Comfort Food Recipes That Pack A Healthy Punch

Roasted Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup

Any time you have roasted flavors in a soup, you're bound to have a delicious and savory meal.

Whole and Heavenly Oven

Apple Cider Chicken Thighs with Root Vegetables

Sheet pan meals deserve all the awards they can receive because they're easy to make and contain juicy flavor that

Woman Scribbles

Beef Teriyaki with Mushrooms and Broccoli

This yummy protein-filled bowl is a top notch comfort food. You'll fall in love with the savory glaze that covers the beef and may want to use it for future meals!

Follow us on Pinterest for more healthy comfort food recipes!

This post has been updated.

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Angelina Jolie Finally Opened Up About Her "Extremely Private" Kids & Motherhood

Angelina Jolie has always been mother — but she's also a literal mother to six kids whom she clearly cares about fiercely. Since she first adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax to giving birth to Vivienne and Knox, it's always been evident that her children are her entire world. While she rarely talks about her children (especially given her highly contested divorce at the moment), Angelina shared a little slice of her feelings on motherhood, insights on her children, and more with Good Morning America.

Here's what Angelina Jolie had to say about her kids — including which one of them is the most private!

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- YouTube

Angelina opened up about her feelings for her family while chatting about her new movie Maria with Good Morning Americaon November 21, 2024. Host Michael Strahan asked Angie about if there's anything she loves as much as her character loves singing, and she replied that it's her "motherhood."

"It’s my happiness. You can take everything else away from me," she said. "I could — nothing else matters."

When asked about her sons' involvement in Maria, Angelina explained that despite their involvement behind the scenes, they're very uninterested in a life in the spotlight. She said, "None of my children want to be in front of the camera. They're quite private."

Angelina elaborated, "Shiloh's extremely private. They weren't born with privacy, so I hope they can have that."

This interview comes after Angelina and Knox attended the Governor's Awards with her on November 18, 2024. His rare appearance shocked so many — including Brad. Daily Mail reported that Pitt found the timing "suspicious."

The source said, "'She is trying to get under his skin after his recent win and using Knox to do so is odd. Knox wants nothing to do with Hollywood and has no communication with Brad."

Despite the weirdness, the source also said, "He [Brad] believes that, in time, his children will come back into his life."

How many kids does Angelina Jolie have?

Angelina Jolie has six children. She adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, and later gave birth to Vivienne and Shiloh. She shares her children with Brad Pitt, most of whom aren't on good terms with him at the moment.

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New Mom Shares Exactly How Much It Cost To Have A Baby In 2024 – Spoiler Alert, It’s A LOT

Just how expensive is it to have a baby in 2024? One woman sharing her experience on social media has sparked a much-needed conversation about financial transparency when it comes to starting (or growing) a family.

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A post shared by Josephine Anderson (@fosterthevalley)

Josephine Anderson, who posted a video on her Instagram @fosterthevalley, outlined the costs of her uncomplicated vaginal birth, and TBH, it was shocking.

The financial breakdown of her experience (with Cigna for insurance):

Routine office visits (including 2 ultrasounds): $1,266
Labs: $3,440.81
NIPT genetic testing: $15,319.36
Anatomy scan: $1,270
RhoGam: $360
Hospital for mom: $23,722.10
Hospital for baby: $7,402.80
OBGYN for delivery: $5,000
Epidural: $5,720
Breastfeeding support: $2,589.78
Pediatrician: $209

That all racks up to a whopping total of $66,299.85. After insurance was factored in (her deductible was $3,000 while her max out-of-pocket for in-network expenses was $11,000), the total cost for her uncomplicated vaginal birth was $4,788.98. Forbes Advisor reports the average cost of having a baby in 2024 is $2,854.

Instagram

Josephine’s video warranted thousands of comments, most of which were appalled by the costs of her experience:

“This needs to be shared in SexEd classes,” one commenter wrote.

“The US medical system is BROKEN,” another said.

“And people are still confused why more women are choosing to remain child free… we literally can’t afford it,” another user commented.

Mart Production / PEXELS

Brit + Co spoke with Wendy Colson RN, IBCLC and CEO/Founder of BOOBIE Superfoods to gauge if Josephine’s costs were typical for the care she received. Colson has significant insight into how insurance works not only from an employer’s perspective, but from personal experience as a patient with breast cancer.

“The $4,788.98 net amount she mentions is realistic given that her deductible was $3,000. If she had chosen a plan with a $1,000 deductible – which is a common ceiling for good coverage – the same scenario would have cost her around $2,789,” Colson said. “The video highlights the importance of understanding what you're getting with an insurance plan, especially when you anticipate major life events like childbirth.”

Sarah Chai / PEXELS

Colson primarily attributes unanticipated costs for medical care (like in Josephine’s case) to patients that choose their insurance plans with, well, no real plan.

“Many [people] opt for the [plan] with the lowest paycheck deductions without fully evaluating the benefits,” Colson said.

There’s often a tradeoff between paying less per paycheck and receiving your desired benefits: for example, if you elect to contribute less money towards your insurance per paycheck, you may end up paying more out of pocket for things like doctor’s office visits and prescriptions.

“Making an informed choice is key to saving money in the long run,” Colson continued. “In short, it's crucial to consider both the immediate costs (like paycheck deductions) and the potential future costs (like deductibles and copays) when choosing an insurance plan.”

Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Another major cost Josephine mentions in her video was 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave, which cost her a total of $18,000 (in lost income).

Per the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in 1993, moms have a legal right to up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that the act was designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, accommodate the legitimate interests of employers, and promote equal employment opportunity for men and women.

Matilda Wormwood / PEXELS

It all sounds great until you realize the time off is indeed unpaid, which doesn't really aid in the amount of money parents end up owing after all is said and done in the pregnancy and childbirth processes.

Only 13 states plus the District of Columbia offer paid maternity leave. When you compare the United States’ laws to that of other industrialized nations, they don’t exactly measure up.

Colson says Sweden’s maternity leave policy is “one of the most generous,” offering 390 days of paid parental leave (shared between parents) and 80% of wages covered for a significant portion of the leave. In Germany, mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave plus a tax-free, income-based allowance straight from their insurance provider.

Jonathan Borba / PEXELS

Though it’s likely that US laws will never be that generous in terms of paid maternity leave, there are a few things you can do to make the blow of medical costs hurt a little less, says Colson.

“My advice is to be your own advocate,” she says. “If you’re planning to have a baby, start by understanding what your state provides in terms of paid leave to avoid surprises after delivery.”

To keep the cost of having your baby (if you’re planning to have one) transparent and free of surprises, Colson recommends:

Asking your physician’s office for a detailed breakdown of insurance billing codes, including:
- Office visits
- Lab work
- Epidural (and the anesthesiologist’s separate fee)
- Hospital admissions
- Specialist consultations during admission
- Optional procedures like circumcision, if desired
Email the insurance billing codes to your insurance provider, who can help calculate your out-of-pocket costs and deductible

“Having a baby is priceless,” Colson says. “By planning ahead – understanding your insurance options, healthcare costs, and available benefits – you can ensure peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: your growing family.”

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