Parmesan Cream Cavatappi

Name: Parmesan Cream Cavatappi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces cavatappi pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Parmesan Cream Cavatappi because it’s an indulgent yet simple dish that captivates my taste buds. The creamy sauce coats each spiral of pasta perfectly, creating a comforting meal that feels restaurant-worthy. The rich flavor of Parmesan elevates this dish, making it an instant favorite in my kitchen. Whether I'm serving it for a weeknight dinner or inviting friends over, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy. It’s all about creating a warming meal that feels luxurious without being too complicated.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:18:00.047Z

When I first discovered Parmesan Cream Cavatappi, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of creamy Parmesan sauce and the twisty cavatappi pasta creates a delightful bite. I often experiment with adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to elevate the flavor and nutrition. The real secret here is to not rush the sauce; allowing the cream to gently simmer melds the flavors beautifully.

Another technique I love is to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the cavatappi. This starchy water is a game-changer; it helps thicken the sauce and makes it cling better to the pasta. It’s a small tip that packs a big punch, and it ensures each bite tastes incredible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that clings beautifully to every cavatappi spiral
Rich and nutty flavor from the abundant Parmesan cheese
Quick cooking time makes this an easy yet impressive dish

      

Perfecting the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce is the heart of this Parmesan Cream Cavatappi, and getting it just right is essential. When melting the butter, make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. After adding the garlic, look for it to become fragrant and slightly golden; this typically takes about a minute. Pouring in the heavy cream should be done gradually, allowing it to heat through before simmering gently. A gentle simmer will help the flavors meld beautifully without the risk of curdling the cream.

Whisking the Parmesan cheese in gradually instead of all at once ensures a smoother sauce. It’s best to use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated for the best flavor and creaminess. If you find that your sauce becomes too thick while combining, don’t hesitate to add small amounts of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired texture. The sauce should be glossy and cling to the pasta as you toss them together.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

While the cavatappi is delicious on its own, garnishing with chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh black pepper not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings out the savory notes of the cheese. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving.

This dish is versatile and can be enhanced with additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, cooked chicken, or roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re meal prepping, Parmesan Cream Cavatappi holds up well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 ounces cavatappi pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Cream Sauce

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

Incorporate the Cheese

Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Stir in salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained cavatappi to the sauce, tossing well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add in reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while hot.

Make sure to enjoy this dish fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein, or incorporate your favorite vegetables to make the dish more nutritious.

Ingredient Insights

The cavatappi pasta shape plays a crucial role in this dish, as its spiral form captures the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is satisfying. If cavatappi isn't available, other pasta shapes like fusilli or radiatori work well too. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly based on the type of pasta you choose.

Heavy cream provides the necessary fat to create that luxuriously creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as thick. Additionally, for a lactose-free option, use a lactose-free cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep it rich while accommodating dietary restrictions.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce seems to separate or curdle, it may be due to the cream getting too hot too quickly. To prevent this, keep the heat on medium-low when adding the cream and allow it to warm gently before simmering. If separation occurs, remove the skillet from the heat and whisk vigorously; sometimes, adding a splash of pasta water can help re-emulsify the sauce.

Another common issue is the sauce being too thick to coat the pasta. Remember, it’s always easier to add more water than to fix a sauce that’s too thin. Start with one tablespoon of reserved pasta water at a time and toss, assessing the consistency. The goal is to achieve a silky, cohesive sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use less heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, but this may result in a less creamy texture.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! You can use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of dairy products.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can experiment with cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.