Barilla Launches Protein+ Stars Pasta: 17g Protein, Derek Hough Tie-In

Barilla expanded its Protein+ pasta lineup with Protein+ Stars, a star-shaped shape that delivers roughly 17 g of protein and 10 g of fiber per 3.5-ounce serving. The new format blends semolina with lentil, chickpea and pea proteins and includes nutritional fortification with B vitamins, iron and folic acid, making it a higher-protein pantry option for cooks balancing nutrition and convenience.

This release is the tenth shape in Barilla’s Protein+ series and joins familiar forms such as Angel Hair, Penne, Rigatoni, Rotini and Spaghetti. Barilla launched the product nationwide in January 2026, and shoppers can already find Protein+ Stars on Amazon, Kroger’s website and on retail shelves. The listed serving size and nutrient claims position the product for people looking to add plant-forward protein to weeknight meals without changing basic cooking habits.

Barilla also linked the roll-out with a lifestyle tie-in featuring Derek Hough. The campaign, called "Training Timers", pairs short micro-workouts with pasta boil durations so movement and meal prep happen in sync. The concept aims to make kitchen time doubly productive by matching quick bursts of activity to the minutes it takes water to reach a boil and pasta to cook, which could appeal to busy parents, active eaters and anyone wanting to add a bit more motion to a routine chore.

For cooks, Protein+ Stars offers both novelty and utility. The star shape changes texture and sauce pickup compared to more common noodles, and the plant-protein blend means you can boost a meal’s protein without relying on meat or dairy. The fiber content per serving is another practical benefit for those tracking satiety or digestive health, and the added micronutrients cover common fortification goals in enriched pastas.

Community kitchens and pasta lovers should pay attention to how shapes influence sauce pairing and family appeal. Star-shaped pasta may be especially handy for kids’ meals, salads, and casseroles where a playful shape adds visual interest. The Training Timers tie-in is a reminder that cooking routines can double as small wellness moments, not a replacement for structured exercise but a practical nudge toward more movement.

What this means for readers is simple: a new Protein+ shape is now an easy grab at many retailers, offering higher protein and fiber in a familiar cooking format, plus a fun Derek Hough-backed way to turn boil time into brief activity. Expect to see Protein+ Stars show up in weekly meal rotations and social feeds as cooks test sauces, salads and quick mashups that take advantage of a pasta with a literal star turn.