America's Most Popular Pasta Dishes

Nothing says comfort food quite like pasta, and with National Pasta Day just around the corner on October 17th, it’s the perfect time to dive into America’s favorite pasta dishes. From creamy Fettuccine Alfredo to hearty Lasagna, pasta is a staple in kitchens across the country. But which dish reigns supreme?
Author: Sanna L?hteenm?ki | Fact checker: Tommi Valtonen · Updated: · Ad Disclosure
Ad Disclosure
BonusFinder is an independent online casino comparison website with affiliate links. This means that we may receive compensation if you take up an offer on our list. Our team is dedicated to finding the best bonuses and casinos for you to play safely, and we review every bonus before adding them to our website.

To celebrate National Pasta Day on October 17th, we wanted to find out which are the most popular pasta dishes in America. Using Google Trends data from the past 12 months, BonusFinder.com, America’s leading casino bonus and online casino review site, compared the search volume of 15 different pasta dishes across the country.

1. Fettuccine Alfredo

Average search score: 77.3 – Favorite in 29 states

With its rich, creamy sauce and tender fettuccine noodles, it’s no surprise that Fettuccine Alfredo topped the list as America’s most popular pasta dish. Not only did it achieve the highest average search score of 77.3, but it also claimed the top spot in a whopping 29 states. This classic Italian-American dish is beloved for its simplicity and indulgence, making it a go-to comfort food for pasta lovers everywhere.

2. Lasagna

Average search score: 72.8 – Favorite in 7 states

Coming in second is the iconic Lasagna , known for its layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and tomato sauce baked to perfection. With an average search score of 72.8, Lasagna is a favorite in seven states, proving that this hearty, oven-baked dish is a perennial favorite for family gatherings and special occasions alike.

3. Carbonara

Average search score: 67.1 – Favorite in 7 states

Rounding out the top three is Carbonara, a dish that’s all about simplicity and rich flavors. Made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper, this Roman classic scored an impressive 67.1, sharing its top spot in seven states. The creamy, yet not overly heavy, sauce makes it a hit among pasta enthusiasts.

4. Spaghetti Bolognese

Average search score: 49.4 – Favorite in 1 state

Known for its savory meat sauce, Spaghetti Bolognese landed in fourth place, with an average search score of 49.4. While only the favorite in one state, this Italian classic remains a weeknight favorite in many households across the U.S.

5. Pesto Pasta

Average search score: 47.7 – Favorite in 2 states

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with the flavor of basil, garlic, and Parmesan, Pesto Pasta earned a respectable fifth place. With an average search score of 47.7, it’s a favorite in two states. This dish is a lighter option compared to its creamier counterparts, making it a popular choice for those who love bright, herbaceous flavors.

6. Cacio e Pepe

Average search score: 37.6 – Favorite in 1 state

The minimalist pasta dish Cacio e Pepe is a classic that has gained popularity in recent years. With an average search score of 37.6 and topping the list in one state, this simple combination of pecorino cheese and black pepper is all about elevating basic ingredients into something spectacular.

7. Spaghetti alla Puttanesca

Average search score: 37 – Favorite in 1 state

Briny, tangy, and packed with bold flavors like capers, olives, and anchovies, Spaghetti alla Puttanesca comes in seventh place. It garnered an average search score of 37, making it the favorite in one state.

8. Spaghetti alla Napoletana

Average search score: 36.6 – Favorite in 1 state

Another spaghetti dish making the top 10 is Spaghetti alla Napoletana, a simple tomato-based pasta that earned an average search score of 36.6. Popular in one state, this dish is perfect for those who prefer a light and classic tomato sauce.

9. Pasta e Fagioli

Average search score: 32.2 – Favorite in 2 states

Hearty and wholesome, Pasta e Fagioli is a rustic Italian dish featuring pasta and beans in a savory broth. With an average search score of 32.2, it’s the go-to dish in two states, appealing to those who enjoy a comforting, soup-like meal.

10. Penne all’Arrabbiata

Average search score: 21.3 – Favorite in 1 state

Rounding out the top 10 is Penne all’Arrabbiata, a spicy tomato-based pasta dish that packs a punch with red chili peppers. It earned an average search score of 21.3, with one state embracing the heat as their favorite.

*Some states had more than one favorite pasta dish.

Honorable Mentions

Several other pasta dishes were included in the study, but didn’t quite crack the top 10. These include:

Spaghetti alle Vongole – Average search score: 20.9 (Favorite in 2 states)
Tortellini en Brodo – Average search score: 14.4 (Favorite in 3 states)
Spaghetti alla Nerano – Average search score: 11.3 (Favorite in 1 state)
Spaghetti with Bottarga – Average search score: 5.2 (Favorite in 1 state)
Penne alla Norma – Average search score: 2 (Favorite in 1 state)

Read more:

America’s Most Haunted: The Spookiest States to Visit This Halloween
Top 10 Most Popular Christmas Foods: Americans Rank Their Festive Favorites
Which States Are the Most Obsessed With Family Guy?

Methodology

Using Google Trends data from the past 12 months, we compared the search volume of 15 different pasta dishes across the country.

author
Author
Digital PR Executive
Sanna L?hteenm?ki is an experienced journalist that is currently the digital PR executive of BonusFinder. She has created several outreach campaigns in North America and has successfully spread the visibility of the BF brand in the iGaming industry. Sanna has studied Investigative Reporting (MA) and has always been curious about the world. She has traveled around the world and visited places that many are afraid to go to. As a seasoned journalist, traveler, and writer, Sanna wants to dig a little deeper and doesn't take anything at face value.