Spaghetti is likely one of the most popular varieties of pasta all across the world. But did you know that there are variations to this classic pasta shape? Today we’ll talk about spaghettoni, the thickest form of spaghetti.
Spaghettoni, which means “lengths of cord” in Italian, is a pasta that can be found not just in Italy, but in most places outside the country. It is basically a spaghetti strand with a thicker and wider diameter, which gives it a fuller texture when paired with any pasta sauce.
In this article, we’ll cover everything there is to know about spaghettoni pasta and provide delicious recipes you can try yourself. Let’s dive in!
Spaghettoni: Origin and Meaning
Here’s a table with essential facts about spaghettoni:
| Pasta Shape: | Spaghettoni |
| Pasta Type: | Thin Pasta |
| Length: | Around 260 mm (10–12 in) |
| Thickness: | Varies |
| Origin: | Italy |
| Meaning: | Italian word meaning “Lengths of cord” |
| Similar Shapes: | Spaghetti, Bucatini, Capellini |
Where Did Spaghettoni Originate?
While the exact origins of spaghettoni are unknown, it is sure to have come from Italy. Outside of Italy, the presence of spaghettoni may not be as solid as both spaghettini (thin spaghetti) and spaghettoni (thick spaghetti) often tend to be grouped under spaghetti.
Just like spaghetti, spaghettoni can be used in most pasta dishes. From a meaty bolognese to a creamy alfredo sauce, spaghettoni’s extra width is sure to add that extra bit of texture to every bite.
What Does Spaghettoni Mean?
The word “spaghettoni” directly translates to “lengths of cord.” Because of its thickness, it is compared to cords of rope rather than “string” or “twine” to which spaghetti is often likened. The added width of spaghettoni allows the pasta to have a chewier and more toothsome texture, but it also means that it is cooked a little longer.
If you’re buying boxed pasta, check the numbers on the boxes. The numbers, which typically range from 1 to 12, refer to the thickness of the pasta inside. “n.1” pasta is usually used in extremely thin noodles while “n.12” is reserved for thicker pasta such as lasagna. Spaghettoni is somewhere in the middle, typically sold in a “n.8” box.
What Is the Difference Between Spaghettoni and Spaghettini?
In some places outside of Italy, spaghettoni and spaghettini are often thought to be synonyms of one another. However, they are actually two ends of the spaghetti spectrum: spaghettini is a thin spaghetti while spaghettoni is the thicker version of spaghetti.
Because both spaghettoni and spaghettini share a lot of physical attributes, they can be considered interchangeable. If you want to know which one to use, it all comes down to personal preference: spaghettoni has a chewier texture while spaghettini is more comparable to capellini in thinness.
Traditional Dishes Suitable for Spaghettoni Pasta
Here are some traditional dishes you can make with spaghettoni pasta:
Aglio e Olio
A deliciously simple and rustic Italian dish that only takes 4 to 5 ingredients to make, aglio e olio is the perfect recipe to try with spaghettoni.
Final Thoughts
Spaghettoni pasta is one of the most versatile pasta varieties in the market today. Its similarity to spaghetti ensures that pairs well with almost any sauce, and the extra pop of texture is always a welcome surprise. If you’re looking for a new pasta variety to try but aren’t ready to try anything out of the box just yet, spaghettoni may just be the perfect pasta for you.