Creamy Mushroom Cavatappi Pasta with Parmesan and Scallions

If you’re a mushroom lover, this pasta is a dream come true. Loaded with sliced cremini mushrooms, it delivers deep, earthy flavors that pair perfectly with springy cavatappi spirals. A creamy garlic herb sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese tie everything together, creating an umami bomb that will make waves at your dinner table.

This recipe is simple, convenient and incredibly satisfying. With pre-measured ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

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Ingredients

0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 ounce Cavatappi PastaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 unit MilkView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

8 ounce Cremini MushroomsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tablespoon Garlic Herb ButterView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1 tablespoon FlourView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. While the pasta cooks, slice the cremini mushrooms and thinly slice the scallions, separating white and green parts.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the garlic herb butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the white parts of the scallions to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Reduce heat to medium. Add the milk and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Let simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and the green scallion slices.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli or rotini works well with this creamy sauce.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, milk alternative and omit Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp or crispy bacon would be delicious additions.