Name: Creamy Cavatappi Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 ounces cavatappi pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Creamy Cavatappi Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, velvety, and loaded with flavor. The corkscrew-shaped pasta holds onto every drop of the luscious cream sauce, making each bite decadent and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cavatappi pastaunsalted buttermingarlicclourmilkheavy creamParmesan cheesecream cheesesalt and black pepperItalian seasoningred pepper flakes (optional)fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.

Add cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.

Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.

Stir in the cooked cavatappi pasta until evenly coated in the sauce.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or more Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCook time: 20 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or bacon for extra protein.

Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.

Use cheddar or gouda for a cheesy twist.

Swap cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.

Make it gluten-free with GF pasta and flour.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What is cavatappi pasta?

Cavatappi is a spiral, tube-shaped pasta perfect for holding creamy or cheesy sauces.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni work well as substitutes.

Is cream cheese necessary?

It adds richness and smooth texture but can be omitted or replaced with more Parmesan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Add more cream when reheating to revive the sauce.

Can I freeze creamy pasta?

Freezing isn’t ideal as cream sauces may separate, but you can try if well-sealed and thaw gently.

How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Whisk constantly when adding liquids and melt cheeses gradually over low heat.

Can I use plant-based ingredients?

Yes, use dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and cheese alternatives for a vegan version.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley, basil, or thyme complement the creamy flavor nicely.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should coat the back of a spoon—adjust with milk or cheese as needed.

Can I bake this pasta?

Yes! Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Conclusion

Creamy Cavatappi Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with proteins and veggies, this silky pasta is sure to be a favorite at your dinner table. Perfect for quick meals, indulgent sides, or cozy nights in—it’s creamy pasta done right.

Creamy Cavatappi Pasta

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Creamy Cavatappi Pasta is a rich and comforting dish featuring corkscrew-shaped noodles coated in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect as a main course or a decadent side dish.

Author: Beth
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

12 ounces cavatappi pasta
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Cook cavatappi pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra protein, stir in cooked chicken or shrimp.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated with a splash of milk.