We Tried 47 Pastas—These Are the 6 Best

By Phoebe Fry

Updated May 26, 2020

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If you haven’t had it at least once a day during the quarantine, consider us awestruck. Pasta is, after all, a near-perfect food. Whether we’re talking pre-pandemic or week whatever-we’re-at of eating all our meals at home, we can always look to pasta when we need a dinner that’s easy to prepare, affordable, and shelf-stable. But not all store bought noodles are created equal, which is why we boiled the water, poured in the pasta, and tasted 47 types. Here, the standouts you should stock up on.

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Best Short: Barilla Collezione Penne

Credit: Courtesy of manufacturer

A little longer than usual, this tube surprised us with its deep, sauce-capturing ridges and artisanal-quality texture.

To buy: $3 for 16 oz.; meijer.com.

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Best Long: De Cecco Spaghetti No. 12

Credit: Courtesy of manufacturer

Get ready to twirl. This long noodle has a mild flavor and perfect texture when cooked al dente. Pair with a batch of saucy meatballs.

To buy: $2 for 16 oz.; target.com.

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Best Gluten-Free: Brown Rice Pasta Fusilli

Credit: Peter Ardito

Gluten-free pastas can be tricky (that’s a nice way of saying gloppy and chewy). But this rice-based option has a firm bite and mellow taste.

To buy: $2 for 16 oz.; traderjoes.com for stores.

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Best Whole-Wheat: Garofalo Whole Wheat Spaghetti

Credit: Peter Ardito

This nutty pick holds up well to bold flavors, like garlic, anchovies, and chiles. It also packs ample fiber and protein.

To buy: $4 for 16 oz.; eataly.com.

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Best Splurge: Faella Mezzi Paccheri

Credit: Courtesy of manufacturer

These elegant rings are dinner-party showstoppers—and worth every penny. Chunky sauces nestle in the hollows, adding flavor to each forkful.

To buy: $11 for 1.1 lb.; gustiamo.com.

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Best Stuffed: Giovanni Rana Cheese Lovers Tortelloni

Credit: Peter Ardito

Lots of stuffed pastas boast three cheeses, but this irresistible option has five, including creamy mascarpone.

To buy: $6 for 18 oz.; walmart.com.

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We Tried 47 Pastas—These Are the 6 Best