Are you a pasta lover looking to spice up your meals? Look no further than Cascatelli, a type of pasta that is sure to become your new favorite. With its unique shape and texture, Cascatelli is perfect for sopping up rich and creamy sauces or holding onto chunky ingredients like vegetables and meats. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Cascatelli recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort foods like Carbonara-Style Cascatelli with Pancetta to international flavors like Mediterranean Cascatelli with Olives and Feta, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or prefer milder flavors, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite sauce and get ready to dig into the world of Cascatelli pasta!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish, featuring tender cascatelli shells smothered in a decadent cream sauce infused with the deep flavor of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, cream sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed) in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato Basil Cascatelli
Spicy Tomato Basil Cascatelli Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Tomato Basil Cascatelli recipe! This spicy twist on classic tomato sauce combines juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of heat for a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cascatelli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve sauce over cooked cascatelli pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Cascatelli
Elevate your seafood game with this vibrant and aromatic Lemon Butter Shrimp Cascatelli recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 4 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces Cascatelli pasta
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp, lemon juice, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Toss cooked pasta with reserved pasta water, then add the shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Cascatelli with Pesto
Roasted Vegetable Cascatelli with Pesto: A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines roasted vegetables, creamy pesto, and tender cascatelli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables and pesto. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked cascatelli pasta to the skillet and toss with the vegetable-pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Carbonara-Style Cascatelli with Pancetta
This recipe reimagines the classic Italian dish by pairing rich pancetta with the unique, curly shape of cascatelli pasta. The result is a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) cascatelli pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked cascatelli pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Add the cooked pancetta to the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Cascatelli Bake
A creamy, cheesy casserole filled with the sweetness of spinach and the richness of ricotta, all wrapped up in a deliciously tender pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cascatelli pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the pasta and toss to coat with the oil.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of pasta followed by a layer of the spinach-ricotta mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pasta on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Cascatelli
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy chicken with the nutty goodness of cascatelli pasta. A perfect blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add heavy cream, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Truffle Oil Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe featuring sautéed mushrooms and a hint of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli 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 heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in truffle oil and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Cascatelli with Toasted Walnuts
This fall-inspired pasta dish combines the sweetness of pumpkin, the earthiness of sage, and the crunch of toasted walnuts for a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cascatelli pasta
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 cups), peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp. chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced pumpkin, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Cook until pumpkin is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the pumpkin mixture. Top with toasted walnuts and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Bacon and Pea Cascatelli Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines crispy bacon, sweet peas, and tender cascatelli noodles. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cascatelli pasta
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add frozen peas to the skillet and cook until thawed and tender.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
7. Combine cooked pasta, bacon-pea mixture, and sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Cascatelli with Olives and Feta
This recipe combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with the convenience of store-bought pasta. With just a few ingredients, you can create a deliciously savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Cascatelli pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Cook Cascatelli 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 heat. Add sliced olives and cook for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the olive-feta mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste.
5. If desired, add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Cascatelli
This hearty one-pot dish combines spicy Italian sausage with nutrient-rich kale and cascatelli pasta for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 cup cascatelli pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chopped kale to the pot in batches, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cooked sausage, and pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Cascatelli Salad
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Cascatelli Salad
A vibrant summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with a pop of freshness from cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, and cherry tomatoes. Toss to combine.
3. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lobster and Creamy Herb Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent lobster and creamy herb dish. Fresh cascatelli pasta is tossed with succulent lobster meat, a rich and tangy sauce, and fragrant herbs for a truly indulgent meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh cascatelli pasta
– 1 lb (450g) cooked lobster meat, diced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lobster meat and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in parsley, chives, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and lobster mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and White Wine Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy sauce featuring roasted garlic and white wine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cascatelli pasta
– 3-4 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add roasted garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in white wine and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Stir in heavy cream and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish featuring caramelized onions, tangy gorgonzola cheese, and tender cascatelli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cascatelli pasta
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 8 oz gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli 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-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark golden brown.
3. Stir in balsamic vinegar and season with salt to taste.
4. Toss cooked cascatelli pasta with caramelized onion mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Fold in crumbled gorgonzola cheese until melted and well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Chili Flake and Garlic Oil Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic oil with the boldness of chili flakes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cascatelli pasta
– 1/4 cup garlic oil
– 2 tsp chili flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the garlic oil over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the chili flakes to the garlic oil and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the garlic oil mixture and stir to combine.
5. Toss the cooked cascatelli pasta with the garlic oil and chili flake mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese and Asparagus Cascatelli
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful dish, featuring herbed goat cheese, tender asparagus, and perfectly cooked cascatelli.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cascatelli pasta
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup herbed goat cheese (see note)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cascatelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a small bowl, mix herbed goat cheese with 1 tbsp of reserved pasta water until smooth.
4. Combine cooked cascatelli pasta, asparagus mixture, and herbed goat cheese in the skillet. Toss until well combined, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 18 delicious Cascatelli recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy sausage and kale, there’s something for every pasta lover. Discover how to elevate your meals with roasted vegetable cascatelli with pesto, or go classic with carbonara-style cascatelli with pancetta. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood with lobster and creamy herb, or a vegetarian option like pumpkin sage cascatelli with toasted walnuts, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
