When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are more satisfying than a warm, cheesy plate of pasta. And when that pasta is cavatelli – those adorable, irregularly-shaped Italian dumplings – you know you’re in for a treat. In this article, we’ll be exploring the rich and creamy world of cavatelli recipes, each one more mouthwatering than the last. From classic combinations like ricotta and lemon zest to bold and spicy options featuring sausage and vodka sauce, there’s something here for every pasta lover.
In the following pages, you’ll find 18 unique and delicious cavatelli recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or lighter, brighter flavors, these dishes have got you covered. So grab a fork, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy cavatelli!
Cavatelli with Ricotta and Lemon Zest
A classic Italian combination of tender cavatelli pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and a burst of citrus flavor from lemon zest. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cavatelli pasta
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly grated lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the ricotta mixture to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Combine cooked cavatelli pasta and ricotta mixture in a serving dish. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Cavatelli with Shrimp
Experience the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this delectable Garlic Butter Cavatelli with Shrimp recipe.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cavatelli pasta
• 4 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water and cavatelli to create a creamy sauce. Combine with the shrimp and garlic mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Cavatelli Bake
A creamy and comforting pasta bake that combines the richness of ricotta with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy cavatelli shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cavatelli pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
4. Add cooked cavatelli pasta to the bowl and toss with the spinach-ricotta mixture until coated evenly.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Cavatelli in Tomato Cream Sauce
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy sausage with tender cavatelli, all smothered in a rich tomato cream sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 12 oz cavatelli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine cooked pasta and reserved pasta water with the sauce. Toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cavatelli with Roasted Garlic and Mushrooms
Cavatelli, a classic Italian pasta dish, gets a boost of flavor with the addition of roasted garlic and mushrooms. This hearty recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatelli pasta
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and golden.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown (8-10 minutes).
4. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add roasted garlic to the skillet with mushrooms and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-garlic mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pesto Cavatelli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of creamy pesto sauce, al dente cavatelli, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatelli pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
3. Add cooked cavatelli pasta to the skillet and toss with the pesto mixture until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Rabe and Cavatelli with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the bold flavors of broccoli rabe, tender cavatelli pasta, and a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying springtime meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
– 12 oz (340g) cavatelli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chopped broccoli rabe to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until tender (5-7 minutes).
5. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked cavatelli pasta and broccoli rabe mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cavatelli Alfredo with Peas and Pancetta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the tender folds of cavatelli with the decadent flavors of a classic Alfredo sauce, enhanced by sweet peas and crispy pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatelli
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook cavatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked cavatelli, peas, and pancetta to the sauce. Toss until well coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Cavatelli in a Light Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent yet elegant dish featuring succulent lobster and tender cavatelli, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) lobster meat, diced
– 1 cup (250ml) light cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (115g) cavatelli pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add lobster meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in light cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked cavatelli and lobster mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Cavatelli with Walnuts
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory dish that combines the earthy flavors of sage, walnuts, and brown butter with homemade cavatelli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make the cavatelli dough by combining flours, egg, and salt in a mixing bowl. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shape.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add chopped sage leaves and walnuts to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve cooked cavatelli with the brown butter sauce spooned over top. Grate Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cavatelli Carbonara with Crispy Guanciale
Experience the classic Italian combination of tender pasta, rich eggs, and crispy cured pork jowl in this indulgent Cavatelli Carbonara recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cavatelli pasta
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 6 slices guanciale, cut into thin strips
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add guanciale strips and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add cooked cavatelli pasta to the egg mixture and toss to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Add the crispy guanciale strips to the pasta mixture and toss gently.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Guanciale crisping time: 5 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Cavatelli with Sage
This fall-inspired pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a comforting cavatelli shape.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12 oz cavatelli pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
3. Toss squash with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions.
5. Combine roasted squash, cooked pasta, and chopped sage in a large bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cavatelli with Spicy Vodka Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta shape, cavatelli, with a bold and spicy vodka sauce for a dish that’s sure to become a favorite. The combination of tender pasta, rich sauce, and savory flavors makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatelli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vodka, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Combine the cooked cavatelli with the spicy vodka sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Truffle Oil Cavatelli with Wild Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the luxurious richness of truffle oil, all wrapped up in tender cavatelli pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatelli pasta
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 3 tablespoons truffle oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the truffle oil and reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add the cooked cavatelli pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the mushroom-truffle sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Cavatelli with Mozzarella and Basil
This recipe takes the humble cavatelli pasta to new heights by combining it with melted mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatelli pasta
– 2 cups mixed mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cavatelli with Clams and White Wine Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines the tender pasta cavatelli with fresh clams and a rich white wine sauce, perfect for a seafood lover’s dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cavatelli pasta
– 2 dozen cherrystone clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatelli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add clams, white wine, clam juice, and oregano. Cook, covered, until clams open, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water and cook for an additional minute to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked cavatelli with the clam sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sunflower Seed Pesto Cavatelli with Arugula
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds with the earthy taste of arugula, all wrapped up in a delicious cavatelli pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cavatelli pasta
– 1/2 cup sunflower seed pesto (see below)
– 4 cups fresh arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Sunflower Seed Pesto:
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine sunflower seed pesto and arugula leaves. Toss until the greens are well coated.
3. Add cooked cavatelli pasta to the skillet and toss with the arugula mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cavatelli with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the tender, homemade cavatelli noodles with sweet caramelized onions and tangy gorgonzola cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cavatelli pasta
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cavatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in crumbled Gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked cavatelli pasta with the caramelized onion mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Cook up comfort with these 18 creamy Cavatelli recipes! From classic combinations like Ricotta and Lemon Zest to bold flavors like Spicy Sausage and Tomato Cream Sauce, there’s something for every taste. Try pairing tender Shrimp with Garlic Butter Cavatelli or going green with Spinach and Ricotta Cavatelli Bake. For a decadent treat, opt for Lobster Cavatelli in Light Cream Sauce or Brown Butter Sage Cavatelli with Walnuts. And don’t forget the veggie options like Roasted Butternut Squash Cavatelli with Sage. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
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