How many cups is 2 pounds cooked pasta?

It's impossible to give you an exact number of cups for 2 pounds of cooked pasta without knowing the type of pasta. Here's why:

* Pasta Shapes: Different pasta shapes hold different amounts of liquid. For example, a pound of cooked spaghetti will yield more cups than a pound of cooked penne.

* Cooking Method: How you cook the pasta can affect the final volume. Overcooked pasta will absorb more water and take up more space.

* Density: The density of the pasta itself varies based on the ingredients and how it was made.

General Rule of Thumb:

* 1 pound of dry pasta = approximately 4 cups of cooked pasta

This is a general guideline, and the actual amount will likely vary.

To get a more accurate measurement:

1. Cook the pasta: Follow the package directions for cooking time and water amount.

2. Drain the pasta: Drain the pasta thoroughly.

3. Measure the pasta: Use a measuring cup to estimate the volume of your cooked pasta.

Tips:

* Overestimate: If you're unsure, it's always better to overestimate the amount of cooked pasta you'll need.

* Use a scale: For the most accurate results, use a kitchen scale to measure the dry pasta.