Parmesan Cream Cavatappi

Name: Parmesan Cream Cavatappi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz cavatappi pasta; Salt (for pasta water); 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Parmesan Cream Cavatappi because it combines rich flavors with velvety smoothness that comforts the soul. The tenderness of the cavatappi pasta paired with the creamy Parmesan sauce creates an indulgent dish that's incredibly satisfying. I often whip this up for dinner gatherings or quiet evenings at home. The best part? It takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it a convenient choice for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:34:07.220Z

When I first attempted to make Parmesan Cream Cavatappi, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to achieve such a gourmet outcome. The trick is in creating a quick roux and allowing the cheese to melt gently into the cream. Using freshly grated Parmesan adds a depth of flavor that pre-grated options can't match. I always keep my ingredients ready because this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. I've experimented by adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach for additional texture and flavor. Each time, it’s a hit! My friends rave about how creamy and flavorful it is, and they never guess how easy it was to prepare. This dish truly proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent creaminess punctuated by sharp, nutty Parmesan
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Versatile; easily customizable with additional ingredients like veggies or proteins

      

Perfecting Your Sauce

Achieving the perfect cream sauce is about balance. Use fresh heavy cream rather than store-bought alternatives for a luxurious mouthfeel. When you simmer the cream, keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching, which can result in an unpleasant taste. You’re looking for a gentle bubble rather than a roaring boil; this will keep your sauce silky and help meld the flavors smoothly.

Whisk in the Parmesan cheese slowly. This method allows the cheese to incorporate fully without clumping, ensuring a uniformly creamy sauce. If your Parmesan isn’t melting smoothly, it could mean it’s too cold or you added it too quickly. A quick fix is to turn down the heat and add a couple of tablespoons of warm pasta water to help it along.

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Cream Cavatappi shines on its own, but consider elevating it further with protein or veggies. Grilled chicken or shrimp makes a delightful addition; simply toss them in at the same time you add the pasta for extra flavor. Alternatively, sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes add both color and nutrition without compromising on the ease of preparation.

When plating, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a touch of color but also an aromatic freshness that brightens the dish. For a bit of zest, experiment with lemon zest or a light dash of red pepper flakes on top to bring out the nutty notes of the Parmesan. This variation adds a pleasing complexity to the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

For the Cavatappi

12 oz cavatappi pasta
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Cream Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a creamy and flavorful pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

Prepare the Cream Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Ingredients

Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Toss the Pasta

Add the cooked cavatappi to the sauce, tossing until fully coated. Remove from heat and let sit for a minute to combine the flavors.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this creamy delight!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce or incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers before tossing in the pasta.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your cavatappi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, be aware that the texture of the pasta may change as it absorbs the sauce. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore creaminess without drying out the dish.

For longer storage, consider freezing. Lay the cavatappi flat in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove excess air. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as mentioned above.

Dietary Adjustments

For a lighter version of this dish, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or Greek yogurt. This will reduce the fat content while still providing a creamy texture. However, add the yogurt at the end off the heat to prevent curdling.

If you're lactose-intolerant, try using lactose-free heavy cream and Parmesan, which are readily available at many grocery stores. Nutritional yeast can also be a great alternative for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just sprinkle it in along with your other seasonings for a deliciously dairy-free twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if adding protein.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little more Parmesan or cook the sauce over low heat until it reduces to your liking.