Parmesan Cream Cavatappi

Name: Parmesan Cream Cavatappi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cavatappi pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love cooking up a comforting bowl of Parmesan Cream Cavatappi when I want something creamy and satisfying. The silky sauce envelops each twist of pasta, making every bite indulgent and rich. I discovered that using quality Parmesan cheese really elevates the flavor, and adding just a hint of garlic ties everything together beautifully. It's a dish that's quick to prepare, but its taste is so decadent that it feels special enough for any occasion.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:01:10.991Z

When I first tried making Parmesan Cream Cavatappi, I didn’t expect it to be such a crowd-pleaser. The combination of cream and cheese creates a luscious sauce that highlights the corkscrew-shaped pasta perfectly. I remember adding a touch of nutmeg, which gives an unexpected warmth that brightens up the dish beautifully.

I've discovered that letting the sauce simmer gently really melds the flavors together. It was a game changer when I opted for fresh herbs like parsley as a garnish—it adds a pop of color and freshness that lifts the entire dish. Every time I make it, I seem to find new ways to enjoy its deliciousness!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Lush, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to each pasta twist
Simple ingredients that come together in under 30 minutes
Endlessly customizable with your favorite herbs and proteins

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The foundation of a great Parmesan Cream Cavatappi lies in the quality of its ingredients. When it comes to cheese, freshly grated Parmesan has a more robust flavor compared to pre-packaged alternatives. The authentic flavor profile of real Parmesan enhances the creamy sauce significantly, adding depth and savoriness. For the cream, opting for heavy cream with a higher fat content results in a richer and silkier texture, so avoid using lighter creams, as they can lead to a thinner sauce.

Garlic is another key player in this dish. Sautéing minced garlic in butter creates a fragrant base that infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic flavor. Be cautious not to burn the garlic; it should only be cooked until just fragrant, about one minute, to ensure it retains its sweet notes and doesn’t turn bitter. I find that adjusting the amount of garlic to your taste personalizes the dish beautifully.

Perfecting Your Technique

When cooking the cavatappi, aim for an 'al dente' texture, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite but fully cooked. Start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package's indicated cooking time. This attention prevents the noodles from becoming mushy in the sauce, allowing them to maintain their shape and catch the creamy sauce effectively.

As you combine the pasta with the sauce, use a large skillet or pot to allow for ample space to toss the ingredients together. A pair of tongs or a large fork is ideal for gentle mixing, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated evenly. If your sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up; this also helps the sauce cling better to the noodles.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz cavatappi pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Parmesan Cream Cavatappi:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix in the Pasta

Add the cooked cavatappi to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy delight!

Now, dig in and savor your home-cooked meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken to the dish. Additionally, ensure that the Parmesan is freshly grated for the best texture and taste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Parmesan Cream Cavatappi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or drying out. Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but be mindful to heat in short intervals, stirring in between to distribute the heat evenly.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the pasta and sauce separately. Combine just before serving to keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy. This also allows for easy storage; simply refrigerate the two components in separate containers.

Customizing Your Cavatappi

One of the great things about Parmesan Cream Cavatappi is its versatility. You can easily make it your own by adding cooked proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms, lending heartiness and enhancing the flavor profile. Additionally, consider stirring in some fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrition while boosting the dish's visual appeal.

For those who enjoy a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks. This adds a subtle heat that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess. Furthermore, experimenting with different herbs such as thyme or basil at the end can elevate the aromatic profile of your dish, providing fresh notes that enhance the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to loosen the sauce.

→ Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli is a great way to incorporate more nutrition into this dish.