Top Pasta Recipes Americans Love: Discover the Most Saved Dishes of the Year

Pasta remains one of the most iconic and versatile comfort foods in American kitchens. From creamy Alfredo to rich Bolognese, pasta’s universal appeal lies in its adaptability and delicious simplicity. Recently, Food & Wine released its list of most saved pasta recipes, based on user engagement and bookmarking data. These standout dishes are capturing hearts—and stomachs—across the United States.

In this article, we’ll explore the top pasta recipes that Americans are cooking and loving. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just looking for fresh ideas for a weeknight dinner, these mouthwatering meals belong on your must-try list.

Why Pasta Is a Perennial Favorite

Pasta’s enduring popularity is no accident. It offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, quick preparation, and endless customization options. Made with a variety of shapes, from penne to orecchiette, and paired with sauces like marinara or pesto, pasta satisfies both casual eaters and culinary connoisseurs alike.

Health and Comfort in Every Bite

Thanks to the expanding range of whole-wheat and gluten-free options, pasta also caters to a variety of dietary needs, allowing it to maintain high appeal without sacrificing flavor. Countless studies link carbs to serotonin release, which can explain the emotional satisfaction many people experience from a hearty bowl of pasta.

Food & Wine’s Most Saved Pasta Recipes of the Year

The recent list curated by Food & Wine identifies user favorites via digital recipe saves and online shares. These recipes resonate not just because they’re delicious, but because they balance gourmet taste with real-life practicality. Let’s dive into the year’s most saved pasta dishes according to the rankings.

1. Creamy One-Pot Baked Ziti

A highlight of the year, the Creamy One-Pot Baked Ziti is beloved for its no-fuss preparation and soul-warming flavors. Made with ricotta, mozzarella, and a simple tomato base, this dish goes from stovetop to oven in minutes, and delivers gooey comfort in every bite. For added depth, many home cooks are adding spicy sausage or fresh herbs.

2. Weeknight Carbonara

This speedy version of a Roman classic skips the complicated steps and delivers a silky, garlic-infused sauce that clings beautifully to spaghetti or fettuccine. With minimal ingredients—eggs, Parmesan, pancetta, and black pepper—Carbonara proves that simple can be extraordinary. It’s a go-to option for date nights or last-minute dinners alike.

3. Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Citrusy brightness meets buttery richness in this standout seafood dish. The Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta combines succulent shrimp, garlic, and fresh lemon juice with angel hair or linguine. Quick to prepare and elegant on the plate, it’s a perfect weeknight indulgence that tastes like a luxury meal.

4. Vegetarian Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Meat-free and full of flavor, these giant pasta shells are stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta, topped with marinara, and baked until bubbly. This classic dish’s popularity continues to grow, appealing to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. It freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or family gatherings.

5. Brown Butter Sage Ravioli

Elegant yet easy, Brown Butter Sage Ravioli makes use of pre-packaged ravioli boosted with a gourmet sauce. The nutty aroma of brown butter and earthy sage leaves elevate the dish, making it special enough for holidays or dinner parties.

How to Recreate These Pasta Favorites at Home

While these mouthwatering recipes are trending online, they’re also easy to replicate with a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry pasta (penne, spaghetti, linguine, ravioli, etc.)
Cheeses such as Parmesan, Ricotta, Mozzarella
Herbs: Basil, oregano, sage, parsley
Fresh vegetables: Spinach, garlic, onion, tomatoes
Olive oil, butter, and eggs
Protein: Pancetta, shrimp, Italian sausage (optional)

Essential Cooking Techniques

Whether boiling water for pasta or whisking egg yolks into a sauce, proper technique transforms your dish. A few tips for perfection:

Salt your pasta water generously for better flavor
Reserve pasta water to create silky, emulsified sauces
Avoid overcooking pasta—aim for al dente
Bake pasta dishes covered for moisture and uncover to caramelize cheese tops

Pairing Pasta with Wine and Sides

To make your pasta dinner restaurant-quality, pair it with complementary wines and side dishes. Here are a few expert combinations:

Baked Ziti – Pairs well with Chianti or Montepulciano
Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta – Try with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc
Carbonara – Best enjoyed with Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay
Stuffed Shells – Serve with a zesty tomato salad and garlic bread
Brown Butter Sage Ravioli – Pairs wonderfully with a dry Riesling or Pinot Noir

Pasta Trends to Watch in 2024

Looking ahead, pasta trends continue to evolve with health-conscious and culturally inspired twists. Expect to see more:

Plant-based pasta dishes using lentil-based pasta or dairy-free cheeses
Fusion creations like Thai peanut spaghetti or Korean gochujang noodles
One-pot and air fryer pasta meals that save time and cleanup
Homemade pasta rising in popularity, especially with tools like pasta makers and kitchen robots

Final Thoughts: Savor the Art of Pasta

From the simplicity of a Weeknight Carbonara to the rich indulgence of a Baked Ziti, these most saved pasta recipes remind us that cooking can be both delicious and satisfying. The variety highlighted in Food & Wine’s list speaks to the universal love for pasta, and the many ways home cooks are making it their own.

Next time you’re considering what to serve for dinner, turn to one of these fan-favorite pasta recipes—they’re not only trending for a reason but guaranteed to impress. Bon appétit!