Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli: A Rich and Spicy Pasta Dish
This Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli combines smooth, velvety cream with the gentle heat of Calabrian chili and the fragrant freshness of basil. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of spice, richness, and aroma. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and elevated — ideal for quick weeknight dinners or elegant weekend meals.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) cavatelli pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
- Optional garnish: extra basil leaves and grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the cavatelli pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté gently for about 30–45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the Calabrian Chili Paste: Stir in the Calabrian chili paste and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma and flavor.
- Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring often until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan and Basil: Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in chopped basil to infuse the sauce with freshness and color.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked cavatelli to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Pour in a small amount of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves and Parmesan cheese.
Notes
To make the dish lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or turkey bacon for extra protein.
For a vegetarian version, include roasted cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms.
The sauce thickens as it cools, so add a splash of pasta water when reheating leftovers.