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A plate of cooked cavatappi pasta with tomato sauce and fresh basil

Cavatappi Pasta Guide and Recipes

Cavatappi pasta, known for its corkscrew shape, is versatile and holds onto sauces perfectly. From mac and cheese to pasta salads, discover how to cook and pair it for delicious results.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

Cavatappi Mac and Cheese

  • 1 lb cavatappi pasta
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tbsp butter

Cavatappi with Marinara and Vegetables

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 zucchini diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced

Baked Cavatappi Pasta Casserole

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes for al dente).
  • Drain pasta and set aside.
  • For mac and cheese: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in milk and cheese until creamy. Add cooked pasta and stir until coated.
  • For marinara and vegetables: Sauté vegetables in olive oil. Add marinara sauce and simmer. Stir in cooked pasta.
  • For baked casserole: Layer cooked pasta with marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

Cavatappi pasta holds sauces well due to its ridges and spiral shape. Try it in creamy, tomato-based, or oil-based sauces for best results.
Keyword Cavatappi, Comfort Food, Pasta