Let’s be honest: gluten-free pasta didn’t exactly get off to a great start. In its early days, the texture was questionable (read: cardboard-like), and the taste wasn’t winning any fans. But thankfully, times have changed.
“Gluten-free pasta has improved significantly over the past decade, which is exactly what you’d expect with more research and demand,” says Scott Keatley, RD, of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy. Still, recreating the pasta experience without gluten is no easy feat. “Gluten is the protein that gives pasta its structure and elasticity. Removing it means finding clever alternatives that still deliver on texture and taste,” Keatley explains.
Now, not only are gluten-free pastas more palatable, but many are also boosted with extra nutrients like protein and fiber. “There’s a lot more variety now—quinoa, buckwheat, amaranth, and legume-based options like chickpea or lentil pasta,” adds Keri Gans, RD, author of The Small Change Diet.
This is a big deal, especially for anyone new to gluten-free living. “When you’re cutting out gluten for health reasons, you shouldn’t have to give up the foods you love. Pasta included,” Gans says.
So, with dozens of options on shelves, where do you even start? Right here. We’ve rounded up 9 of the best gluten-free pastas out there—ones that actually taste good and hold their shape like the real deal.
1. Le Veneziane Italian Gluten Free Corn Pasta
$14.54 (Amazon)
If you’re craving that classic Italian pasta experience, this corn-based option is a winner. “It cooks and tastes like traditional semolina pasta,” says Keatley. Amazon reviewers agree—many claim their dinner guests never noticed the difference.
Per serving: 200 cal, 0.5g fat, 45g carbs, 0mg sodium, 1g fiber, 4g protein
2. Barilla Gluten Free Spaghetti
$13.25 for 3 boxes (Amazon)
This corn-and-rice blend from Barilla is one of the closest matches to regular pasta in taste and texture. “It’s not mushy, and it looks just like wheat pasta,” reviewers say.
Per serving: 200 cal, 1g fat, 44g carbs, 0mg sodium, 1g fiber, 4g protein
3. Jovial Capellini Gluten-Free Pasta
$9.99 (Amazon)
Made from 100% organic brown rice flour, this pasta is consistently rated one of the best gluten-free options out there. Reviewers love how it cooks quickly and holds its shape—no mush here.
Per serving: 210 cal, 2g fat, 44g carbs, 0mg sodium, 2g fiber, 5g protein
4. Explore Cuisine Edamame & Mung Bean Fettuccine
$26.99 (Amazon)
High-protein, low-carb, and shockingly satisfying. This bean-based pasta has 24g of protein per serving and the texture of traditional fettuccine. Bonus: it keeps you full for hours.
Per serving: 180 cal, 4g fat, 20g carbs, 0mg sodium, 14g fiber, 24g protein
5. Banza Chickpea Pasta (Variety Pack)
$25.00 (Amazon)
This popular chickpea pasta offers penne, rotini, and shells in one pack. It’s lower in carbs and high in protein—plus, it holds up beautifully with sauce.
Per serving: 190 cal, 0g fat, 32g carbs, 45mg sodium, 5g fiber, 13g protein
6. The Only Bean Organic Edamame Fettuccine (6-Pack)
$26.99 (Amazon)
Made with just one ingredient—edamame beans—this pasta delivers seriously impressive macros. Reviewers love it for keto-friendly dishes or post-workout meals.
Per serving: 190 cal, 3.5g fat, 35g carbs, 45mg sodium, 19g fiber, 44g protein
7. Bentilia Gluten-Free Black Bean Penne
$23.99 (Amazon)
Packed with fiber and protein, this black bean pasta is as filling as it is flavorful. Reviewers note it has better texture than rice or whole wheat alternatives.
Per serving: 281 cal, 1.3g fat, 42g carbs, 0mg sodium, 13g fiber, 19g protein
8. Modern Table Lentil Pasta Variety Pack
$21.05 (Amazon)
Made with lentils and available in a mix of shapes, this pasta doesn’t even need added protein—it brings plenty on its own. Plus, it cooks fast and tastes great.
Per serving: 190 cal, 0g fat, 37g carbs, 0mg sodium, 3g fiber, 11g protein
9. Tinkyada Organic Brown Rice Pasta Spirals (Pack of 6)
$31.53 (Amazon)
Tinkyada has a loyal following for a reason: their brown rice pasta holds up without going mushy. “It has the perfect bite and tastes just like the real thing,” one reviewer wrote.
Per serving: 300 cal, 2.5g fat, 63g carbs, 5mg sodium, 5g fiber, 6g protein
The Bottom Line
If you’re exploring a gluten-free lifestyle, there’s no reason to miss out on pasta night. From high-protein legume pastas to classic corn and rice varieties, there’s a gluten-free option for every taste and dietary need. And now, they’re not only nutritious—they’re actually delicious, too.
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General Health Magazine 