In the world of comfort food, few dishes rival the heartwarming, carb-loaded magic of pasta. Whether it’s creamy Alfredo, zesty marinara, or hearty Bolognese, pasta has a way of bringing people together — or dividing them, depending on how it’s served. Across the United States, countless pasta chains are vying for your attention (and appetite), but not all noodles are created equal.
We ventured into the saucy trenches, fork in hand, to rank 15 of the most popular pasta chains in the U.S. — from those that left us reaching for a breath mint (and a refund) to the ones that made us want to lick the plate clean.
Let the Pasta Wars begin.
15. Sbarro
We all know Sbarro. It’s the staple of mall food courts and airport terminals. And while their pizza slices might get a pass, their pasta offerings are…well, let’s just say they’re forgettable at best. The baked ziti is bland, overcooked, and often drowned in tomato sauce that tastes like it came from a can. It’s fast and cheap, but in the battle of pasta, Sbarro brings a butter knife to a sword fight.
Signature Dish to Skip: Baked Ziti
14. Fazoli’s
Fazoli’s leans into the fast food side of Italian-American cuisine, and while we respect the ambition, the execution is hit or miss. The pasta often comes out overcooked, the sauces lack depth, and the meatballs are spongy. Still, unlimited breadsticks can be a saving grace — soft, garlicky, and addictively good.
Breadstick Redemption: Worth popping in for those alone.
13. Olive Garden
Wait… Olive Garden this low? Yes, and here’s why: consistency issues. Some locations serve up decently satisfying pasta, while others miss the mark entirely. The Alfredo is often too thick, the marinara too sweet, and the pasta itself isn’t always al dente. But the salad and breadsticks? Still undefeated. And that Tour of Italy platter? Pure nostalgia.
Most Popular Dish: Chicken Alfredo
12. Pizza Hut (Pasta Menu)
Surprise! Pizza Hut’s pasta game has quietly improved over the years. Their Tuscani Pastas, particularly the creamy chicken Alfredo, aren’t bad for a pizza joint. Still, they come baked in a foil pan and feel more like a side dish than a real meal. If you’re already there for pizza, it’s a decent add-on.
Underrated Item: Meaty Marinara Pasta
11. Bertucci’s
With its New England roots and brick oven flair, Bertucci’s offers a cozier sit-down experience. Their pasta dishes, like the Rigatoni Abruzzi or Shrimp Rossini, have nice flavor combos but can be hit or miss depending on the kitchen. Bonus points for fresh ingredients and warm rolls.
Solid Pick: Rigatoni, Broccoli, and Chicken with Garlic Cream Sauce
10. Brio Italian Grille
Brio sits in that sweet spot between casual and upscale, and their pasta menu reflects that. While the quality is generally solid, some dishes veer into overly rich territory. The Lobster & Shrimp Fettuccine is decadent but can feel heavy after a few bites. Still, it’s a good place for a fancier pasta night.
Splurge-Worthy Dish: Lobster & Shrimp Fettuccine
9. Noodles & Company
This chain gets points for variety. Where else can you go from Pad Thai to Penne Rosa in a single order? Their pasta bowls are customizable and quick, making it a go-to for lunchtime carb cravings. While not all dishes hit the mark (looking at you, zucchini noodles), the Wisconsin Mac & Cheese is a fan favorite for a reason.
Crowd Favorite: Penne Rosa with Parmesan-Crusted Chicken
8. Carrabba’s Italian Grill
Carrabba’s flies a little under the radar, but their pasta game is surprisingly strong. Their house-made sauces, like the creamy tomato basil, stand out. Dishes like the Lasagne and Fettuccine Weesie (shrimp and mushrooms in a garlic lemon cream sauce) show some serious flavor depth. Definitely underrated.
Underrated Gem: Fettuccine Weesie
7. Johnny Carino’s
Johnny Carino’s brings bold flavors to the table with hearty portions and sauces that don’t shy away from seasoning. The Italian Nachos are legendary as a starter, and their Spicy Shrimp and Chicken pasta packs heat and flavor. It’s casual comfort food that delivers.
Spicy Showstopper: Spicy Shrimp and Chicken
6. Buca di Beppo
If you like your pasta with a side of chaos and a giant photo of your Uncle Sal on the wall, Buca di Beppo is the place. Their family-style servings are massive, the garlic is heavy-handed (in a good way), and the sauces are flavorful. It’s more about the experience than culinary precision, but you won’t leave hungry.
Best Bet: Spaghetti with Meatballs (as big as your fist)
5. Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Macaroni Grill offers a mix of rustic charm and modern Italian-American eats. Their create-your-own pasta option is great for picky eaters, and their Signature Truffle Mac & Cheese is rich and indulgent. Bonus points for fresh rosemary bread served with olive oil and cracked pepper.
Signature Indulgence: Truffle Mac & Cheese
4. Eataly (Counter Service Pasta)
While not a traditional chain in the fast-casual sense, Eataly’s counter-service pasta stations deserve recognition. With house-made noodles, high-quality sauces, and simple-yet-perfect combinations like Cacio e Pepe or Tagliatelle Bolognese, Eataly is pasta heaven for the foodie on the go.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the fresh burrata add-on.
3. Maggiano’s Little Italy
Maggiano’s nails the Italian-American comfort vibe with rich sauces, hearty portions, and a polished-yet-welcoming setting. Their “Mom’s Lasagna” is the kind of dish that feels like it came out of Nonna’s oven. Plus, the “Classic Pastas” come with a take-home bonus portion — talk about value.
Can’t-Miss Dish: Mom’s Lasagna
2. North Italia
For those who crave elevated Italian with a modern twist, North Italia delivers. From hand-made pastas to fresh ingredients and artfully presented dishes, this is where pasta lovers go to treat themselves. The Bolognese and Short Rib Radiatori are absolute standouts.
Luxury in a Bowl: Short Rib Radiatori with Parmesan Cream
1. Il Fornaio
At the top of our pasta power pyramid sits Il Fornaio, a California-born chain that brings the elegance of a high-end trattoria with the reliability of a franchise. Their pasta is consistently fresh, perfectly cooked, and dressed with sauces that balance tradition and flavor. It’s the rare chain where the pasta could rival what you’d find in Rome or Florence.
Chef’s Kiss: Tagliatelle al Ragù
Final Thoughts: The Sauce Always Rises
Whether you’re a die-hard spaghetti traditionalist or someone who lives for cheesy, creamy pastas, there’s a chain out there with your name on it. The beauty of the U.S. pasta scene is its range — from mall food courts to fine dining experiences — and there’s something satisfying about discovering which bowl of noodles speaks to your soul.
In this pasta war, the real winner is you — especially if you’re hungry.