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Spaghetti -

We all know this classic pasta. Spaghetti alla Bolognese, carbonara, and puttanesca are just a few favorites.

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Penne -

This popular tube-shaped pasta is extremely versatile. Try it all'arrabbiata—a delicious, spicy sauce made from  tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil.

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Fettuccine -

This pasta works great with beef or chicken ragù. Fettuccine Alfredo (or fettuccine al burro) with butter and cheese is also a popular dish.

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Ravioli -

Ravioli can be made or bought with different fillings. Sometimes a simple tomato sauce and a touch of Parmesan cheese on top is enough.

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Lasagna -

This pasta-lovers' favorite can be cooked with a traditional bolognese sauce.

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Lasagna -

But you can fill it with other ingredients. Spinach and ricotta is also a popular combo.

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Tagliatelle -

Tagliatelle works best with rich sauces. Think a nice cream-based sauce with zucchini, pancetta, and mushrooms. Or a rich tomato sauce with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

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Linguine -

From clams to prawns, this sort of flattened spaghetti pairs perfectly with seafood.

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Farfalle -

It's easy to see why farfalle is sometimes called "bow tie pasta." It goes particularly well with cream-based sauces and salads.

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Cannelloni -

This classic tube-shaped pasta is perfect for filling with thick, rich sauces. Bolognese is a popular choice.

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Cannelloni -

But spinach and ricotta also works really well with cannelloni. Experiment with different fillings, pop it in the oven, and enjoy!

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Tortellini -

Similar to ravioli, these are filled bits of pasta. Meat, Parmesan cheese, egg, and nutmeg make for a delicious filling.

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Fusilli and Rotini -

Though slightly different, they both resemble small twisted springs. They're very versatile and can be paired with tomato or cream-based sauces.

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Rigatoni -

This type of pasta goes well with meat-rich sauces. Rigatoni works great with sausages and meatballs.

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Bucatini -

Bucatini is a type of thick spaghetti with a hole running through the middle. You can use it instead of regular spaghetti to trap a bit more flavor inside!

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Rotelle -

The little wheels are the perfect addition to a fresh salad. Add onions, peppers, cucumbers, and other veggies, and toss it with a nice extra-virgin olive oil.

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Ziti -

Ziti is the perfect pasta for baking. Add a tomato-based sauce and cheese for a gooey goodness casserole.

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Pastina -

These small pieces of pasta are a nice addition to soup. Though you can also mix it with egg and cheese.

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Pappardelle -

This traditional egg-based flat noodle goes well with hearty ragù sauces, meats, and mushrooms.

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Orecchiette -

Pasta that resembles small ears sounds fun, right? Toss it with greens such as spinach.

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Fregula -

This is a traditional pasta from Sardinia. You can cook it with sausage and saffron, seafood, or mix it with asparagus and gorgonzola cheese.

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Manicotti -

Cannelloni's big brothers can be stuffed with a variety of fillings. Ricotta and spinach is a popular combo.

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Ditalini -

These little thimbles work amazingly with soups. Try it in a thick minestrone soup.

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Conchiglie -

Shaped like little shells, they're perfect to trap the sauce flavor in their center. Try them with tomato, cream, or cheese-base sauces.

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Cavatelli -

Cavatelli resembles tiny hot dog buns. Add a light tomato-based sauce, or sauté it with garlic.

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Mafaldine -

This type of ribbon-shaped pasta goes well with shrimps, vegetables, and a light sauce.

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Angel Hair -

This thin pasta goes well with light sauces, or simply tossed with olive oil.

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Macaroni -

Who doesn't love gooey and delicious mac and cheese?

See also: Pizza, pasta, and other common Italian stereotypes.

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