Kids Pasta Recipe

Boil water

Pour 2 liters of water into a large pot and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt once boiling.

Cook pasta

Add 3 cups cavatappi (or 3 cups gluten-free penne if substituting) and 1 teaspoon olive oil to the boiling water. Stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes for al dente cavatappi (follow package directions for exact time). For gluten-free penne, cook 9–11 minutes or per package.

Drain and finish

Reserve 1/4 cup (60 ml) of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Return pasta to the pot off the heat. Add 1 teaspoon butter and toss to coat so pasta doesn’t stick while you prepare sauce.

Marinara

Heat 1 cup marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until simmering, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour the warmed marinara over the drained pasta and toss gently. If the sauce seems thick, add up to 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen.

Butter & Parmesan

With the drained pasta still warm, add 2 tablespoons butter & parmesan mixture (or 2 tbsp melted butter plus 2 tsp grated Parmesan) and toss until evenly coated. Add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky finish.

Creamy Cheese Sauce

Heat 1 cup cream-based cheese sauce over low-medium heat until warm, about 2–3 minutes. If too thick, whisk in 1–2 tablespoons reserved pasta water. Pour over pasta and toss until evenly coated.

Select desired toppings: place 3 mini cooked meatballs or 2 oz sliced cooked chicken on top of pasta if using. Sprinkle 2 tsp grated Parmesan and 1 oz shredded mozzarella over the pasta. For vegetables, stir in 1 tablespoon steamed peas. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and up to 1 teaspoon black pepper to taste.

Optional garnish: chiffonade 1 fresh basil leaf and sprinkle over the finished dish for color and aroma.

Serve: transfer to kid-sized bowl or plate, let cool until warm (not hot) and serve immediately. Estimated single serving size is about 1 full plate (serves 1 kid).