Some says eating pasta means longer life, is that true? I don’t know, but one thing I know for sure is that these 10 fast-food pasta dishes are something that really gives a different approach, from the famous Italian-styled pasta dishes up to your typical fast-food joints, I’m sure you’ll try one after reading this list.
10. Piada Italian Street Food
Let’s start off the list with something Italian. If you’re somewhere near the location, you should check out Piada Italian Street Food. With over 40+ locations in seven states, Piada brings Italian cuisine to American streets, something you should look out for!
Their Italian-style Carbonara Pasta is a delicious and creamy mix of parmesan alfredo, pancetta, bruschetta tomatoes, and spinach. If you like your pasta spicy, then try the Diavolo Pasta, loaded with spicy diavolo sauce and bruschetta tomatoes. You can also create your own dish, choosing from meatballs, calamari, and hot peppers and topping it off with strawberries and glazed pecans.
9. Pastabilities
Next on the list is Pastabilities in Syracuse, New York, since 1982 – another restaurant in New York, but only found in the said location alone. From their delicate angel hair to robust rigatoni (I know, the food name is unique!), they offer a variety of pasta options, they also have gluten-free options like penne and rotini if you’re more into a healthier diet. The sauce selection is diverse, from Vegan Basil-Walnut Pesto to the fiery Spicy Hot Tomato Oil, and the ultimate comfort dish: Creamy Mac and Cheese Bake.
As I mentioned, this restaurant is only in New York, so if you’re nearby, it’s worth a try while it’s still open.
8. Pizza Hut
This next list is probably something you know for sure. Pizza Hut is a famous fast-food joint we’re all familiar with. Started in 1958, Pizza Hut has since become a known pizza giant all over the world, with over 19 thousand locations last 2022.
As for the pasta, you can choose any of their creamy Cheesy Alfredo sauce with tender grilled chicken and copious amounts of cheese, or the Italian Meats medley crafted with sweet tomato sauce, zesty pepperoni, and Italian sausage, all with a layer of molten cheese underneath. Pizza Hut clearly has pasta items that are on par with other dishes on the list.
7. Portillo’s
Portillo’s is a normal pasta dish in Chicago street food, starting in 1963 as a hot dog stand only in Villa Park, Illinois, a really nice history to begin with. Of course, they still have a history of hot dogs but let’s just focus on their pasta.
You might want to try their Penne Ala Vodka, a creamy dream with spicy tomato vodka sauce mixed with penne noodles. For a spicier option, then try the Penne al Arrabbiata with spicy marinara, fragrant basil, and a nice amount of parmesan. Classics like spaghetti and fettuccine alfredo ensure everyone leaves satisfied.
6. Sbarro
Sbarro started in 1956 in Brooklyn and now brings their delicious pizza to many food courts. Their Baked Ziti is a nice mix of three cheeses and a little bit of spicy tomato sauce. If you prefer something more classic, then try their Spaghetti and Meatballs, really simple, and delicious, but you will never get tired of eating a whole plate for sure. However, the pasta choices are a bit limited, so you might find repeat visits a bit boring.
5. Fazoli’s
Next is Fazoli’s, with the tagline “Fast. Fresh. Italian.”. They are one of the best pasta contenders on this list for me. Located in Kentucky and with over 200+ locations as of this year 2024, Fazoli’s has made itself into the world of American fast-food dining.
They are a bit different from the more traditional Italian-American dishes, Fazoli’s has the best of American-Italian fusion. The chain’s Twice Baked Lasagna is a sign of its love for comfort food—because why bake once when you can do it twice? So next time you’re near the location, just try their pasta, for sure, you will never regret it.
4. Noodles & Company
Noodles & Company is your next stop for a flavor-packed pasta experience, you know they are good with pasta with their name alone, lol. With their menu, you could enjoy timeless favorites like Wisconsin Mac & Cheese and Buttered Noodles, or explore vibrant Asian dishes like Pad Thai and Spicy Korean Beef Noodles.
As of today, they have over 468 U.S. locations, and Noodles & Company truly makes its name known when it comes to pasta dishes. However, for some, it might be overwhelming to look for so many pasta choices on their menu, and some may miss more authentic Italian options and just pick whatever is familiar to them—please just ask the counter what’s the best Italian pasta dish, and you’re good to go.
3. Giordano’s
Coming up on the third list is Giordano’s famous Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken & Broccoli. It’s a creamy dish with chicken and broccoli in a rich and flavorful sauce. They also have gluten-free pasta. Giordano’s offers pizza and pasta under one roof (Try their pizza too, they are worth it!). They are more famous for their pizza after all, but when you think of it, almost all Italian-inspired pasta is worth every buck.
2. Domino’s
When you spot the Domino’s logo, you likely think of pizza, right? But beyond its famous pizza options, it also offers delicious and creamy pasta, that’s why they are yet another typical fast-food chain on the list. From its humble beginnings in 1960 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Domino’s has evolved into a global sensation. With options like Pasta Primavera and Italian Sausage Marinara, you get a hearty experience with robust flavors for fast food prices.
Domino’s has made-to-order pasta, so there’s no need to wait for a longer time like the other food joins on the list. Or just grab your phone and order online, easy as that. But while its delivery is quick since it’s a fast-food joint, this might lead to inconsistencies in taste and appearance – not like the other traditional pasta joints.
1. Vapiano
Last but not least is Vapiano pasta dishes – a fast-casual dining with high-quality ingredients that started its journey way back in 2002. With a focus on freshly handmade pasta, you can always never go wrong with any of their pasta dishes, like I said, natural and hand-made is most likely better than those made-to-order dishes. Take the Crema di Funghi if it’s your first try, the combination of mushrooms and white cooking wine is stirred into a creamy sauce, this is simplicity in pasta but so delicious, or you could try the Filetto di Manzo con Vino Rosso for tender beef tenderloin bathed in a rich, creamy wine sauce.
Yes, there are more fast-food pasta dishes mentioned, maybe you’re looking for a typical one, but these 10 pasta dishes are a cut above the rest – perfection in every plate! Make sure you save this in your notes so next time you’re near, you’ll have a taste of the best.