How many ounces equals 1 cup cooked pasta?

There's no simple answer to how many ounces equals 1 cup of cooked pasta because the amount varies based on the pasta shape and how it's cooked.

Here's why:

* Pasta Shape: Different pasta shapes have different densities. For example, spaghetti is lighter than penne.

* Cooking Method: Overcooked pasta will absorb more water and become heavier.

General Guideline:

As a general guideline, you can assume approximately 3-4 ounces of dry pasta will yield about 1 cup of cooked pasta.

Important Note: It's best to check the recipe instructions for the specific pasta you're using. They usually provide the amount of dry pasta needed for a certain number of servings.