Cavatappi Pasta Recipes

Mak Erot

4 min read

·

Apr 06, 2025

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Cavatappi Pasta Recipes: A Twist on a Classic

Cavatappi, also known as cellentani or corkscrew pasta, is a fun and versatile pasta shape that's perfect for holding onto delicious sauces. Its unique spiral design adds texture and visual appeal to any dish. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these cavatappi pasta recipes will inspire you to create flavorful and satisfying meals.

Quick & Easy Cavatappi Recipes: Weeknight Wonders

These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table quickly, without sacrificing flavor.

Creamy Tomato & Basil Cavatappi:

This recipe is a classic for a reason! The creamy tomato sauce clings beautifully to the cavatappi's spirals.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Cook cavatappi according to package directions.
  2. While pasta cooks, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
  3. Stir in basil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Toss to coat.
  5. Serve immediately.

Garlic Parmesan Cavatappi:

Simple yet incredibly satisfying, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The garlicky goodness is irresistible!

• Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Cook cavatappi according to package directions.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic oil.
  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Elevated Cavatappi Recipes: Impress Your Guests

These recipes are perfect for special occasions or when you want to create something truly memorable.

Spicy Sausage & Cavatappi with Roasted Red Peppers:

This recipe offers a delicious blend of savory sausage, sweet roasted peppers, and a touch of spice.

• Ingredients: (This recipe requires more advanced preparation and ingredients.)

  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 jar (12 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish

• Instructions: (This recipe involves multiple steps and requires more cooking time.)

  1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove sausage and set aside.
  2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and roasted red peppers. Cook for a few minutes.
  4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Cook the cavatappi according to package directions. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet.
  6. Return the sausage to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Baked Cavatappi with Spinach and Ricotta:

This comforting baked pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The creamy ricotta and spinach filling is wonderfully flavorful.

• Ingredients: (Requires oven baking and layering.)

  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Instructions: (This recipe involves layering and baking.)

  1. Cook cavatappi according to package directions.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Spread half of the marinara sauce in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  5. Add half of the cooked cavatappi, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers.
  6. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking and feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! Enjoy your delicious cavatappi creations!