This Creamy Cavatappi is a luscious and rich pasta dish that combines perfectly cooked cavatappi noodles with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) cavatappi pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the saucepan with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the creamy cavatappi to serving bowls or plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course: Serve as a hearty main course with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad.
- Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
- Family Dinner: Perfect for a comforting family dinner on busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips:
- Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Cheese: For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of cheeses such as cheddar or Gruyère.
- Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or chives for an extra burst of freshness.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cavatappi Pasta: Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
- Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, essential for bone health.
- Milk and Cream: Offer additional calcium and vitamins.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make the dish gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Rich: The sauce is perfectly creamy and cheesy, coating each piece of pasta.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for satisfying your pasta cravings.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Cavatappi is a delightful and easy-to-make pasta dish that offers a comforting and delicious meal. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this recipe any time you need a quick yet indulgent dinner.