Go Back
To master spicy sausage cavatappi, start with the pasta. Cooking cavatappi pasta is easy. Boil water and add salt. Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta but save some water for later. This helps to adjust the sauce.

Spicy Sausage Cavatappi

Is Spicy Sausage Cavatappi your next favorite meal? This creamy and flavorful pasta dish combines the bold taste of spicy Italian sausage with the perfect pasta shape to create a family-friendly dinner in just 30 minutes. Packed with vibrant ingredients, it's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Click through to explore the delicious recipe and start cooking today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz cavatappi pasta

1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook cavatappi pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

      Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

        Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, then add red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

          Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. When the sauce starts to thicken slightly, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked cavatappi to the skillet and toss to combine everything evenly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

              Final Taste Check: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.

                Serve: Plate the spicy sausage cavatappi in bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4-6