6 Pasta Alternatives That Taste Like Cardboard and 5 Guilt-Free Picks You’ll Love

Low-carb, gluten-free, high-protein… pasta alternatives are everywhere. But let’s be honest: some of them taste like damp paper towels in disguise. If you’ve ever taken a hopeful bite and instantly regretted it, you’re not alone. Here are 6 pasta swaps that seriously miss the mark, followed by 5 better-for-you picks that bring the texture and the flavor.

1. Shirataki Noodles (a.k.a. Miracle Noodles)

Rubbery, watery, and oddly fishy. Sure, they’re basically zero-calorie—but they’re also zero-satisfaction for most people.

2. Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles)

They look fun in theory, but they get soggy fast and taste more like steamed squash than anything resembling pasta.

3. Chickpea Pasta (Some Brands)

While chickpeas have promise, many versions turn gummy and grainy when cooked—plus that earthy flavor can overpower your sauce.

4. Black Bean Spaghetti

Looks like Halloween, tastes like disappointment. It often ends up mushy and carries a strong bean aftertaste that clashes with tomato sauces.

5. Cabbage Noodles

Boiled cabbage as pasta? It’s more like soggy filler. Fine in stir-fries, but not fooling anyone looking for a pasta replacement.

6. Konjac-Based Angel Hair

Slippery, slimy texture and almost no ability to hold onto sauce. Even the low-calorie brag can’t save this one.

7. Lentil Pasta

Firm, slightly nutty, and holds its shape. Packed with protein and fiber, lentil pasta is one of the few that feels like a real meal.

8. Whole Wheat Pasta

An easy upgrade. Still has that pasta bite, but with more nutrients and fiber. Perfect if you want something hearty without sacrificing texture.

9. Spaghetti Squash

Mild flavor and a fun, noodle-like texture when roasted right. It’s light, low-carb, and plays nicely with tomato or pesto sauces.

10. Brown Rice Pasta

Neutral taste and reliable texture when cooked properly. A great gluten-free option that doesn’t scream “I’m a substitute.”

11. Quinoa + Corn Blend Pasta

These blends usually strike the best balance—mild flavor, springy bite, and sauce-absorbing goodness. Kid- and sauce-approved.