Creamy Mushroom Cavatappi Pasta with Parmesan and Scallions

If you love mushrooms, this pasta is for you. Sliced cremini mushrooms are the star, bringing deep, earthy flavor to every bite. Combined with springy cavatappi spirals, a creamy garlic herb sauce and a finishing touch of Parmesan cheese, this dish is an umami bomb that will wow your dinner table.

Best of all, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The creamy sauce is made with cream cheese and milk, seasoned with Italian herbs and fresh garlic. A sprinkle of scallions adds a fresh pop of color and flavor. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 ounce Cavatappi PastaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

8 ounce Button MushroomsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit MilkView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 clove GarlicView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 tablespoon FlourView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 teaspoon Italian SeasoningView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cavatappi and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
2. While pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add milk, cream cheese and Italian seasoning. Whisk until cream cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in cooked pasta and half the Parmesan cheese. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Serve topped with remaining Parmesan and sliced scallions.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli or farfalle works well.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute cream cheese and milk with dairy-free alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water.