America's Test Kitchen Season 14 Episode 13 It's Pasta Night

In season 14, episode 13 of America's Test Kitchen, the theme of the night is pasta! The test kitchen chefs and cooks take on the challenge of creating three classic pasta dishes - Spaghetti and Meatballs, Pasta e Fagioli, and Linguine with Clam Sauce - with a few twists to make them even better than the classic.

First up is Spaghetti and Meatballs, a family favorite that can often fall short in either the noodle or meat department. The test kitchen team tackles this dish by testing different meatball recipes and methods for cooking and browning them. They also experiment with different types of spaghetti noodles and techniques for cooking them to achieve the perfect al dente texture. Along the way, they share tips for making the meatballs flavorful and moist, and avoiding common mistakes like overcooking the spaghetti or overcrowding the meatballs in the pan.

Next, the chefs move on to Pasta e Fagioli, a hearty Italian soup featuring beans, pasta, and a savory broth. Again, the team explores different ways to make the meaty base of the soup rich and flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients. They also compare different types of beans and techniques for cooking them, as well as strategies for creating a satisfyingly thick and creamy texture. Finally, they discuss ways to avoid overcooking the pasta and ensure that it stays firm and chewy in the soup.

The final dish of the night is Linguine with Clam Sauce, a classic Italian seafood pasta that can be tricky to get right. The team delves into the nuances of selecting and cooking clams, from the best types of clams to use to strategies for purging and steaming them. They also experiment with different flavor profiles for the sauce, including white wine, garlic, and lemon. Finally, they test different types of pasta and cooking techniques to find the ideal combination for this dish.

Throughout the episode, the test kitchen team shares cooking tips and techniques for each dish, including how to properly incorporate spices and seasoning, how to avoid overcooking pasta, and how to balance the flavors of multiple ingredients. They also delve into common mistakes and pitfalls to avoid, such as overcrowding pans or overcooking meats. The result is a comprehensive guide to making three classic pasta dishes that are perfect for any night of the week.