12 Time-Saving Hacks If You're Obsessed With Pasta

Simply soak it in salted water for 30 minutes before baking ― no boiling necessary. You can even use this technique when making lasagna to save yourself the hassle of precooking pasta sheets. See how to do it here.

Then boil it for just 60 seconds for a perfectly al dente texture. See how to do it here.

Just add half a cup of shredded cheddar and half a cup of milk to your microwaved pasta to transform it into an instant mac and cheese perfect for busy weeknights. See how to do it here.

Alton doesn't waste time boiling a giant pot of water to cook his pasta. Instead, he starts his in cold water — just enough to cover the pasta — and brings it to a boil for just a few minutes. Learn how to do it here.

That way, all you have to do is microwave it for 20 seconds or reheat it directly in sauce for a hearty dinner that comes together in a flash. Learn how to do it here.

Just add your pasta to the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving. It will absorb enough sauce to become tender without having to boil it first. See how to do it here.

The pressure cooks the pasta in half the time without having to stir it or risk boiling over. Learn how to do it here.