pin it
This cheesy bacon cavatappi pasta brings together creamy, smoky flavors in a comforting dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners. The spiral shape of cavatappi noodles holds the rich cheese sauce beautifully, while bacon adds a savory punch that makes this pasta irresistibly good.
I created this recipe when my kids were going through a picky eating phase, and it quickly became our Thursday night tradition. The combination of creamy cheese and bacon brings everyone to the table without complaints.
Ingredients
- Cavatappi noodles: Their spiral shape captures more sauce in every bite
- Condensed cream of bacon soup: Provides an instant flavor base with smoky undertones
- Milk: Creates the perfect creamy consistency
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic stretchy cheese pull
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty dimension to balance the creaminess
- Bacon bits: Provide a satisfying texture contrast and smoky flavor punch
- Onion powder and garlic powder: Infuse the sauce with aromatic depth without the texture of fresh aromatics
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the cavatappi noodles according to package directions until al dente usually 8 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as they'll continue to soften slightly in the oven. Drain thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.
- Create the Creamy Base:
- In a large saucepan, combine the milk and condensed cream of bacon soup, stirring continuously until well blended. This forms the foundation of your creamy sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, watching carefully to prevent scorching, then immediately remove from heat.
- Combine Components:
- Add the drained pasta to your sauce, ensuring each piece gets coated. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, distributing evenly. Fold in the cup each of mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring gently until completely melted and incorporated. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon with a silky texture.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading into an even layer. Top generously with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then sprinkle with bacon bits to create a savory crust. Bake at 400°F for 14 to 16 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops light golden spots.
pin it
The first time I made this dish, I accidentally doubled the bacon bits, but that happy mistake revealed how the extra bacon creates perfect little pockets of smoky flavor throughout the pasta. Now I always add a generous handful to the cheese topping.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this cavatappi pasta lies in its versatility. For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of hot sauce to the milk mixture. You can also fold in a cup of thawed frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms before baking for added nutrition and texture. For an extra indulgent version, stir in 4 ounces of cream cheese with the milk mixture for an even creamier result.
Storing and Reheating
This pasta keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of milk and cover with foil before warming in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. For single servings, microwave with a tablespoon of milk and a loose cover, stirring halfway through. The pasta can also be frozen for up to 3 months just let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty pasta with something light and fresh like a simple green salad with vinaigrette or steamed broccoli. For a complete meal, add some grilled chicken or Italian sausage on the side. A glass of medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti balances the richness beautifully for adult diners. For casual entertaining, serve it alongside garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food spread.
pin it
This cheesy cavatappi pasta is sure to become a family favorite with its smoky flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, while cavatappi's spiral shape is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with other medium-sized pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells with similar results.
- → What can I substitute for cream of bacon soup?
If cream of bacon soup isn't available, try cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup with 2-3 tablespoons of bacon grease or 1/4 cup of additional bacon bits for flavor.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
- → What cheese alternatives work well in this dish?
Gruyère, fontina, or cheddar make excellent substitutions for mozzarella. For the Parmesan, you could try pecorino romano or asiago cheese.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, or covered in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout.
- → Can I add vegetables to this pasta dish?
Absolutely! Consider adding steamed broccoli, peas, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach. Mix them in just before baking for a more complete meal.