How Long to Cook Spaghetti / Pasta
Dried spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, linguine, and other standard pasta shapes.
The Short Answer
On the stove, spaghetti / pasta takes 8–12 minutes. Scroll down for all cooking methods, detailed instructions, and tips from the Professor.
Cooking Methods
🍳 Stovetop
Time: 8–12 minutes
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and stir immediately. Cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Start testing 1 minute before the package time.
Salt the water generously; it should taste like the sea. And never add oil to the water. It does not prevent sticking and it does prevent the sauce from clinging to the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use at least 4 quarts (1 gallon) of water per pound of pasta. Pasta needs room to move for even cooking.
Only if you are making a cold pasta salad. For hot dishes, never rinse. The starchy surface helps sauce stick to the pasta.
The Bottom Line
Spaghetti / Pasta is straightforward to cook when you know the time and temperature. Use the method that fits your equipment and schedule, and always let the food rest before cutting or serving. Resting allows juices to redistribute and carryover cooking to finish the job.
Source: Culinary reference | Last verified: March 19, 2026 | Our methodology