When it comes to pasta dishes, few shapes are as beloved as cavatappi. This Italian tubular pasta is perfect for scooping up rich and creamy sauces, and its unique shape makes it a great vessel for trapping flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for special occasions, cavatappi is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious cavatappi recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic combinations like creamy garlic parmesan and spicy Cajun sausage to more adventurous options like lemon butter shrimp and Mediterranean olives and feta, there’s a cavatappi recipe out there for everyone. So grab your favorite sauce and get ready to indulge in these mouthwatering pasta dishes! In this article, we’ll dive into each of the 20 recipes below and provide you with all the ingredients and instructions you need to create these culinary masterpieces.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cavatappi
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cavatappi recipe, featuring tender cavatappi tubes smothered in a decadent garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatappi pasta
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked cavatappi pasta with the creamy garlic sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Cavatappi with Andouille Sausage
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this bold and flavorful dish, featuring the rich flavors of Andouille sausage and a kick of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and chicken broth. Toss to combine.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese (if using). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Cavatappi
This creamy and citrusy pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich lemon butter sauce, all wrapped up in tender cavatappi noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and whisk together lemon juice and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Toss cooked cavatappi with lemon butter sauce, then add cooked shrimp and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Cavatappi
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Three-Cheese Baked Cavatappi
Transform plain cavatappi into a rich and satisfying pasta dish with this easy-to-make recipe. A blend of creamy cheeses, savory garlic, and buttery goodness will elevate your dinner game.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cavatappi pasta
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup (60ml) grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese in the skillet. Stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Cavatappi with Grilled Chicken
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, tender grilled chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatappi pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with pesto mixture.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Cavatappi
Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Cavatappi Recipe
This rich and savory pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted garlic and mushrooms with the comforting warmth of cavatappi. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a impressive dinner party offering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatappi pasta
– 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic with 1 tablespoon olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine roasted garlic, cooked pasta, and mushroom mixture in a serving dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Cavatappi Bake
A creative twist on traditional buffalo chicken wings, this casserole combines the flavors of spicy chicken, creamy pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cavatappi pasta
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pan, combine chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, buffalo chicken mixture, mozzarella cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Cavatappi with Olives and Feta
Experience the bright flavors of the Mediterranean in this hearty pasta dish, where tender cavatappi is paired with briny olives, crumbly feta, and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cavatappi pasta
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese in the skillet. Toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Cavatappi with White Wine Cream Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this comforting pasta dish, featuring tender cavatappi noodles smothered in a creamy white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cavatappi pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bacon and Pea Cavatappi Alfredo
Savor the creamy goodness of this indulgent pasta dish, where crispy bacon and tender peas meet rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatappi pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and let melt. Add peas and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and pea mixture. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Cavatappi with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and creamy cavatappi pasta for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cavatappi pasta, chicken broth, and mozzarella cheese. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Herb Cavatappi with Roasted Vegetables
This comforting pasta dish combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend supper.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell pepper, zucchini, and squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
5. Add roasted vegetables to the skillet and toss with garlic mixture. Combine with cooked cavatappi pasta. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Cavatappi with Black Beans
Discover the bold flavors of smoky chipotle and tender black beans, perfectly paired with homemade cavatappi pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound black beans, cooked
– 1 cup cavatappi pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add chipotle pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Stir in cooked black beans.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the black bean mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cavatappi Carbonara with Pancetta
Rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of pancetta, eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks and parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Add cooked cavatappi to the bowl with the egg yolk mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add reserved pasta water in small increments to achieve creamy consistency.
6. Stir in pancetta and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Cavatappi with Fresh Mozzarella
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive pasta dish, featuring tender cavatappi, sweet tomatoes, and creamy fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked cavatappi to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Divide the pasta among plates. Top each serving with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Cavatappi Casserole
This comforting casserole is a delightful combination of tender cavatappi pasta, steamed broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add broccoli florets to the skillet and steam for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the pasta and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai Peanut Cavatappi with Crispy Tofu
A creamy, spicy, and savory twist on traditional pasta, this recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with crispy tofu for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and curry paste. Blend until smooth.
4. Fry tofu pieces in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the peanut sauce until well coated.
6. Serve pasta topped with crispy tofu, garnished with chopped peanuts and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Cavatappi in a Creamy Sherry Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent dish featuring succulent lobster, rich sherry sauce, and tender cavatappi. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cavatappi
– 1 lb (450g) lobster meat, diced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (125ml) dry sherry wine
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatappi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add lobster meat; cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Pour in heavy cream and sherry wine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked cavatappi with the lobster sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Cavatappi with Wild Mushrooms
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent and earthy dish, featuring the luxurious flavor of truffle oil and the rich aroma of wild mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatappi pasta
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with mushroom mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 delicious cavatappi recipes! From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan and Three-Cheese Baked, to bold flavors like Spicy Cajun with Andouille Sausage and Thai Peanut with Crispy Tofu, there’s something for every occasion. Indulge in rich and creamy dishes like Lemon Butter Shrimp and Tuscan Cavatappi with White Wine Cream Sauce, or go light and fresh with Mediterranean Cavatappi with Olives and Feta. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a show-stopping main course, these recipes have got you covered.
