Jul 09 2026

Cavatappi Pasta Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

butter or marinara sauce

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring about 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tsp of salt to the water.

  2. 2

    Cook Pasta

    Add 2 cups of cavatappi pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta.

Making the Sauce

  1. 4

    Melt Butter

    In the same pot or a separate skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

  2. 5

    Add Garlic

    Once the butter is melted, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. 6

    Combine with Pasta

    Add the drained cavatappi pasta back into the pot with the butter and garlic. Toss well to coat.

  4. 7

    Add Cheese and Season

    Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and season with black pepper to taste. Mix until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.

  5. 8

    Optional Marinara

    If preferred, add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the cavatappi mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

  6. 9

    Garnish

    Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil before serving.

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