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If you love pasta, you’ve likely encountered a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but one that stands out for its ability to hold sauces perfectly is cavatappi.
This short, spiral-shaped pasta, with its ridged texture and twisty form, is an excellent choice for both hearty and delicate dishes.
Its versatile shape makes it ideal for everything from creamy sauces to vibrant, fresh ingredients.
In this blog, we’ll explore 26+ Italian cavatappi recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a comforting pasta dish.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light, creamy, savory, or packed with bold flavors, these cavatappi recipes will inspire you to get cooking!
26+ Irresistible Italian Cavatappi Recipes You Must Try
Italian cavatappi pasta is a wonderful ingredient that pairs effortlessly with a wide variety of sauces, meats, vegetables, and seasonings.
From simple weeknight meals to more extravagant pasta dishes, these 26+ recipes offer a fantastic array of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques.
The spiral ridges of cavatappi ensure that every bite is full of flavor, making each dish more satisfying.
No matter what your palate craves, these recipes provide endless opportunities to explore the versatility of this beloved Italian pasta.
Get ready to try something new or reimagine your favorite comfort food with these delicious cavatappi pasta recipes!
Classic Cavatappi with Tomato Basil Sauce
This classic cavatappi dish features a rich tomato basil sauce that is both refreshing and satisfying. The curly pasta shape of cavatappi perfectly holds the sauce, making every bite full of flavor. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and crushed tomatoes creates a sauce that is vibrant and flavorful, a true Italian comfort food at its best.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the pan. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the sauce has thickened, toss in the cooked cavatappi pasta and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the fresh basil and stir to combine.
- Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra basil leaves for garnish.
This dish of cavatappi with tomato basil sauce is a delightful classic that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. The simple ingredients allow the flavors to shine through, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a comforting meal for guests. With its smooth, tangy sauce and aromatic basil, it’s a dish that will quickly become a staple in your pasta repertoire.
Creamy Cavatappi with Spinach and Ricotta
This creamy cavatappi recipe features a rich and velvety sauce made from ricotta cheese and spinach. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and the curly cavatappi pasta creates a luscious, indulgent dish. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes with a touch of healthy greens for balance.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
The creamy cavatappi with spinach and ricotta is a comforting and indulgent meal, perfect for those who love a creamy pasta dish with a healthy twist. The spinach adds a slight earthiness that balances out the richness of the ricotta and cream, creating a deliciously smooth sauce. This dish is ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner and can easily be customized with additional ingredients like mushrooms or chicken for added protein.
Cavatappi with Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Cavatappi with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes is a vibrant, flavorful pasta dish that brings together the bold, herby flavors of pesto with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. The cavatappi’s spiral shape holds the pesto perfectly, allowing each bite to be packed with aromatic flavors. This is a quick and easy meal that can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the pesto sauce to the pan and stir to combine with the tomatoes. Let the pesto heat through for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the pesto sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts, fresh basil leaves, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cavatappi with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes is a burst of bold flavors in every bite. The combination of the aromatic basil pesto and the sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes makes this pasta dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for a light but satisfying meal, and with the option to make it in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a standalone meal or pair it with a side salad for a more filling meal.
Cavatappi with Sausage and Peppers
Cavatappi with sausage and peppers is a hearty, satisfying pasta dish that brings together savory Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions. The bold flavors of the sausage combined with the sweetness of the peppers create a wonderful contrast, while the cavatappi pasta captures all the savory juices, making each bite full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner that can easily feed a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (either spicy or mild), casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up into small pieces, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Return the sausage to the pan and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan and toss to combine everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
This cavatappi with sausage and peppers is a robust and flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding a group or enjoying as a filling family dinner. The rich, savory sausage pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers and onions, while the cavatappi pasta ensures every bite is packed with flavor. The addition of chicken broth keeps the dish moist, making it a comforting, satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce for the ultimate Italian meal experience.
Cavatappi with Shrimp and Garlic Butter Sauce
Cavatappi with shrimp and garlic butter sauce is a luxurious, seafood-infused pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce. The pasta’s spiral shape complements the tender shrimp perfectly, while the garlic butter sauce gives the dish a savory, indulgent flavor that’s easy to prepare but impressive enough for a special dinner. This dish is a must-try for seafood lovers!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Once melted, add the white wine and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Add the cooked cavatappi pasta and toss again to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cavatappi with shrimp and garlic butter sauce is a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to make. The shrimp is perfectly cooked and coated in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, which complements the curly cavatappi pasta beautifully. The addition of lemon adds a touch of brightness, balancing the richness of the butter. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner or an elegant family meal and is sure to impress anyone who enjoys seafood.
Cavatappi with Bacon and Brussels Sprouts
Cavatappi with bacon and Brussels sprouts is a unique pasta dish that brings together smoky bacon, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and hearty cavatappi pasta. The savory bacon and roasted Brussels sprouts create a deliciously rich and slightly smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tender pasta. This dish is both comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for those seeking a filling, flavor-packed meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the Brussels sprouts and cook until browned and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes to deglaze the pan and help soften the Brussels sprouts.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the bacon and Brussels sprouts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves for garnish.
Cavatappi with bacon and Brussels sprouts is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of both worlds: the savory richness of crispy bacon and the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of caramelized Brussels sprouts. The cavatappi pasta acts as a perfect base, capturing all the delicious flavors of the bacon and Brussels sprouts. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a hearty and well-rounded meal.
Cavatappi with Lemon Garlic Chicken
Cavatappi with lemon garlic chicken is a zesty and refreshing pasta dish that combines succulent chicken, bright lemon, and savory garlic. The tender chicken is seasoned and cooked to perfection, then tossed with cavatappi pasta in a lemony garlic sauce that’s both tangy and flavorful. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth to the pan, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and add it to the pan with the sauce.
- Toss the cooked cavatappi pasta in the pan to coat it with the lemon garlic sauce.
- Serve with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Cavatappi with lemon garlic chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory garlic. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s not too heavy. This dish is light enough to enjoy on warm evenings yet comforting enough for a cozy dinner. The added brightness from the lemon gives it a refreshing edge, making it a great option for a fresh, flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Cavatappi with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil
Cavatappi with mushrooms and truffle oil is a luxurious and earthy pasta dish that combines the deep umami flavors of sautéed mushrooms with the aromatic richness of truffle oil. The spiral shape of the cavatappi is perfect for capturing the flavorful sauce, making each bite decadent and satisfying. This dish is perfect for mushroom lovers or anyone who enjoys indulgent, restaurant-quality pasta at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tbsp truffle oil (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they become tender and golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan and toss to coat it evenly in the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Drizzle with truffle oil, tossing again to distribute the flavor.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh thyme and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cavatappi with mushrooms and truffle oil is a rich and indulgent pasta dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or whenever you’re craving something luxurious. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms are beautifully complemented by the creaminess of the sauce and the subtle aroma of truffle oil. This dish feels sophisticated yet comforting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner that will wow your guests or elevate your weeknight meals.
Cavatappi with Broccoli and Sausage
Cavatappi with broccoli and sausage is a hearty, nutritious, and flavor-packed pasta dish. The combination of Italian sausage, sautéed broccoli, and spicy red pepper flakes creates a robust flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the curly cavatappi pasta. This dish is easy to make and provides a well-balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes, softening the broccoli further.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan and toss to coat everything in the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Cavatappi with broccoli and sausage is a well-rounded, satisfying meal that delivers a punch of flavor in every bite. The savory sausage and crispy-tender broccoli create a perfect contrast, while the pasta helps bring it all together. This dish is a great way to enjoy a complete meal with vegetables, protein, and carbs, all in one easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a family or need a quick, filling meal, this hearty pasta will hit the spot every time.
Cavatappi with Roasted Red Pepper Pesto
Cavatappi with roasted red pepper pesto is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The roasted red peppers bring a smoky sweetness to the pesto, while the cavatappi pasta’s spiral shape ensures it holds onto the sauce in every bite. This dish is both creamy and zesty, with a nutty finish from the pine nuts. It’s a fresh twist on traditional pesto and a must-try for anyone looking for a bold pasta dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 large roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red peppers, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
- Toss the cooked cavatappi pasta with the roasted red pepper pesto, making sure the pasta is fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cavatappi with roasted red pepper pesto is a deliciously different take on the classic pesto pasta. The roasted red peppers add a natural sweetness and smokiness, which pairs beautifully with the rich pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. The creamy, tangy pesto coats the cavatappi pasta perfectly, creating a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. It’s a great choice for those who want a lighter yet flavorful pasta dish, and the addition of fresh basil makes it a refreshing option for any season.
Cavatappi with Shrimp and Asparagus
Cavatappi with shrimp and asparagus is a light, elegant pasta dish that’s full of fresh flavors. The sweet, succulent shrimp pairs wonderfully with the crisp-tender asparagus, and the creamy lemon garlic sauce adds richness without overwhelming the ingredients. The cavatappi pasta, with its spiral shape, is the ideal vehicle for capturing the delicate sauce, making each bite a satisfying experience. This dish is ideal for a special dinner or a satisfying yet light meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the asparagus and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Cavatappi with shrimp and asparagus is a refreshing, balanced pasta dish that offers the perfect blend of flavors. The shrimp adds sweetness and protein, while the asparagus brings a crisp, vegetal note to the mix. The lemon garlic sauce ties everything together with its rich yet light creaminess. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy yet indulgent pasta option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress guests at a dinner party.
Cavatappi with Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
Cavatappi with sausage, peppers, and onions is a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with bold, savory flavors. The Italian sausage brings spice and richness, while the sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions add depth and sweetness to the mix. Tossed together with cavatappi pasta, this dish offers a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a family dinner. It’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors, making it a great go-to option for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add the sliced bell pepper and onion. Sauté until softened and caramelized, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the sausage to the pan and stir to combine.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cavatappi with sausage, peppers, and onions is a classic, rustic pasta dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and caramelized onions creates a deeply comforting meal that pairs beautifully with the cavatappi pasta. The dish is easy to make, packed with delicious ingredients, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty dinner with the family. It’s a great weeknight option that guarantees a flavorful, fulfilling meal.
Cavatappi with Creamy Spinach and Bacon
Cavatappi with creamy spinach and bacon is a decadent, indulgent dish that combines crispy bacon, velvety spinach, and a rich, creamy sauce. The crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the creamy spinach sauce is comforting and flavorful. This pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering. The cavatappi pasta’s spiral shape captures every bit of the luscious sauce, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving a little bacon grease in the pan.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan, tossing everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy spinach sauce.
- Top with the crispy bacon and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Cavatappi with creamy spinach and bacon is the ultimate indulgence for pasta lovers. The rich, creamy spinach sauce balances perfectly with the crispy, salty bacon, while the cavatappi pasta soaks up every bit of that velvety sauce. This dish is a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion—from a casual family dinner to a special treat on the weekend. The combination of flavors is irresistible, making it a standout recipe in any pasta lover’s repertoire.
Cavatappi with Lemon Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Cavatappi with lemon garlic chicken and broccoli is a light, refreshing pasta dish that’s both healthy and full of flavor. The tender chicken is infused with a zesty lemon garlic marinade, while the broccoli adds a vibrant, nutritious element to the dish. The cavatappi pasta’s curves capture the garlic lemon sauce beautifully, creating a balanced meal that’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan. Add the cooked cavatappi pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cavatappi with lemon garlic chicken and broccoli is a perfect combination of fresh, light ingredients that come together to create a well-balanced meal. The zesty lemon garlic sauce infuses the chicken with flavor, while the tender broccoli adds crunch and nutrition. Paired with the spiral-shaped cavatappi pasta, this dish is a satisfying yet healthy option for those looking for a quick and flavorful dinner. It’s simple to make but bursting with freshness, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings or meal prepping.
Cavatappi with Mushrooms and Truffle Oil
Cavatappi with mushrooms and truffle oil is an elegant and flavorful pasta dish that brings together earthy mushrooms and the luxurious essence of truffle oil. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to elevate a weeknight dinner. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, creamy sauce, and aromatic truffle oil creates a comforting yet sophisticated pasta dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cavatappi pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups mushrooms (such as cremini or button), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp truffle oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 6-8 minutes until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the pan and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy mushroom sauce.
- Serve with fresh thyme or parsley for garnish.
Cavatappi with mushrooms and truffle oil is a luxurious yet easy-to-make pasta dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. The rich, creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms are enhanced by the decadent truffle oil, making each bite a flavorful experience. The cavatappi pasta’s shape holds the sauce beautifully, creating a perfect balance of texture and flavor. This dish is a true indulgence, making it ideal for a romantic dinner, a festive gathering, or any time you want to enjoy a sophisticated meal.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!