Introduction
Delight in the creamy goodness of this cavatappi pasta dish, a perfect blend of rich cheeses and aromatic garlic, ideal for cheese lovers. This comforting meal is both hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
8 ounces cavatappi pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk, or more as needed
½ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is well incorporated and slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, crumbled gorgonzola, and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk as needed to reach the desired consistency. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Roux
Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is well incorporated and slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Stir in the shredded mozzarella, crumbled gorgonzola, and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk as needed to reach the desired consistency. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh chives if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Cooking Pasta
Make sure to salt the boiling water adequately to flavor the pasta.
Note 2: Cheese Variations
Feel free to substitute other types of cheese based on your preference, but be mindful of the melting qualities.
Note 3: Adjusting Sauce Consistency
Adjust the thickness of the sauce with additional milk if necessary.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or crusty bread.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cooking cavatappi pasta requires bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This technique ensures the pasta retains its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.
Sautéing Garlic
In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic. This technique releases essential oils and flavors essential for the sauce.
Making a Roux
Whisk all-purpose flour into the sautéed garlic and butter, cooking until it is lightly browned. This roux serves as a thickening agent for the sauce.
Creating a Cream Sauce
Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and dried thyme into the roux. Continuously whisking as the mixture heats helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Incorporating Cheeses
Once the cream sauce thickens, gradually stir in shredded mozzarella, crumbled gorgonzola, and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted. This technique enhances the flavor and creaminess of the sauce.
Tossing Pasta
Add the cooked cavatappi pasta to the cheese sauce and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly. This technique ensures each piece of pasta is surrounded by the rich sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with other pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni, although cooking times may vary.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or more milk, but the sauce may not be as rich.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I omit or substitute the gorgonzola cheese?
Yes, you can either omit the gorgonzola cheese or substitute it with another blue cheese or a similar creamy cheese that complements the dish.
How can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more milk until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue cooking it a bit longer to thicken.
What can I use instead of fresh chives for garnish?
You may substitute fresh chives with parsley, green onions, or even a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Conclusion
This creamy cavatappi recipe offers a rich blend of flavors from the cheeses and the aromatic garlic, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The combination of mozzarella, gorgonzola, and Parmesan creates a perfect harmony, while the addition of Dijon mustard and thyme adds a subtle complexity. Serve this pasta dish warm, and enjoy the comfort it brings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta
Combine the creamy sauce with chopped spinach and artichoke hearts for a classic flavor combination.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese
Add shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy twist on the traditional mac and cheese.
Mushroom and Truffle Oil Pasta
Sauté mushrooms in the butter before adding the garlic and finish with a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
Veggie-Loaded Cavatappi
Incorporate cooked vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes to increase the nutritional value while adding vibrant color.
Smoked Salmon and Lemon Pasta
Mix in flaked smoked salmon and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy, flavorful seafood version.
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Brown Italian sausage and mix it with bell peppers for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor.
Caramelized Onion and Bacon Pasta
Add caramelized onions and crispy bacon to the pasta for a savory dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Herbed Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Toss in diced grilled chicken and sliced sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair and added protein.
