Creamy Basil & Chili Cavatelli: A Spicy Delight

If you love bold flavors and a creaminess that just hugs every bite, get ready to meet An Amazing Ultimate pasta dish: Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli. This recipe is a vibrant, spicy, and utterly irresistible ode to southern Italian comfort food. Each cavatelli is coated in a silky sauce that’s rich from Parmesan and heavy cream, then sparked with the heat and smokiness of Calabrian chili paste, all woven through with fresh aromatic basil. Trust me, this is the kind of meal people will talk about long after their plates are clean—a true celebration for spicy pasta lovers and a delicious new twist on creamy comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This An Amazing Ultimate recipe lets each ingredient play a starring role, blending pantry staples and a couple of specialty treats for maximum impact. From the earthy cavatelli to that unique Calabrian chili kick, every element in this dish is chosen for its delicious contribution to taste, texture, or color.

• Cavatelli Pasta: Its compact shape is ideal for cradling creamy sauces, making each bite incredibly comforting.
• Olive Oil: Use your favorite extra-virgin variety to start your sauce on a flavorful foundation.
• Garlic: Minced fresh, it infuses the entire dish with an irresistible, savory aroma.
• Heavy Cream: Delivers that lush, velvety texture that makes this sauce so dreamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings salty, nutty depth and helps the sauce cling wonderfully to the pasta.
• Fresh Basil: Chopped just before stirring in, basil adds vibrant color and a sweet, herbaceous lift.
• Calabrian Chili Paste: The spicy heart of the dish; it offers heat, smokiness, and a hint of bright red color—add more if you like extra fire!
• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste so every ingredient shines just right.
• Extra Basil Leaves (optional): Perfect for garnish and a pop of freshness at the very end.
• Chili Flakes (optional): Crank up the heat to your liking for the ultimate spicy experience.

How to Make An Amazing Ultimate

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a generously salted pot of water to a boil. Cook the cavatelli until just al dente—they should be pleasantly chewy, never mushy. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining; this liquid gold will help your sauce coat the pasta perfectly later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a wide skillet, heat the olive oil over medium. Add those fragrant minced garlic cloves and stir for about a minute, just until their aroma fills your kitchen. Be careful—they go from perfectly golden to burnt fast, and we want nothing but fragrant sweetness here.

Step 3: Pour in the Cream

Lower the heat and gently add the heavy cream, stirring constantly so it marries smoothly with the sautéed garlic. This step sets the rich, dreamy base for your An Amazing Ultimate sauce.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan gradually, stirring as you go. You’ll see the sauce start to thicken and transform—the cheese works its magic here, creating that luscious texture that clings to every cavatelli groove.

Step 5: Mix in Basil & Chili

Now add the chopped fresh basil and bold Calabrian chili paste. This is where the An Amazing Ultimate flavor comes alive! Stir well to distribute that spicy, aromatic goodness. Taste the sauce and add more chili paste if you want it extra vibrant and fiery.

Step 6: Toss Pasta with Sauce

Return the drained cavatelli to your skillet and toss thoroughly, ensuring every piece gets enrobed in sauce. If things look a little thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you hit that silky, glossy perfection.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Give your dish a final check for salt and pepper. Adjust as needed until every element of your An Amazing Ultimate really pops on the palate.

Step 8: Finish & Serve

Let everything linger together on low heat for a couple more minutes—this helps the flavors meld. Then, slide everything off the stove and get ready to plate up!

Step 9: Plate & Garnish

Spoon your creamy cavatelli into bowls and, if you’re feeling festive, top with extra basil leaves or a shower of chili flakes for those who dare. Serve piping hot for the ultimate comforting treat.

How to Serve An Amazing Ultimate

Garnishes

The right garnish does wonders for this An Amazing Ultimate dish. Add a scatter of torn fresh basil for herbal flair, a dusting of grated Parmesan, or an artful pinch of chili flakes for a fiery finish. These little touches make every bowl look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Balance the spice and creaminess of your cavatelli with something light and crisp. Think a peppery arugula salad, roasted seasonal veggies, or even some toasted garlic bread to swipe through extra sauce. These sides round out the meal while keeping the spotlight on your An Amazing Ultimate pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve the cavatelli in shallow bowls with a swirl of chili oil, or plate in individual ramekins, broiled briefly with a cheese topping. If you’re hosting, set up a pasta bar and offer extra basil and Calabrian chili paste on the side — let everyone jazz up their own An Amazing Ultimate creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store your cavatelli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, but the flavors keep getting better, making this An Amazing Ultimate just as good for lunch the next day.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, transfer cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture of your An Amazing Ultimate delight.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir slowly until heated through—the creamy basil and chili flavors will revive beautifully, just like when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I substitute another pasta for cavatelli?

Absolutely! While cavatelli’s ridges and shape are amazing for holding the sauce, you can use any short, sturdy pasta like orecchiette, gnocchi, or even penne for your An Amazing Ultimate experience.

Where can I find Calabrian chili paste?

Most specialty or Italian markets stock Calabrian chili paste, but you can also find it online. In a pinch, a good quality chili garlic paste can stand in, though the flavor will be a bit different.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a pleasant medium heat! For a milder An Amazing Ultimate, use less chili paste, or omit the optional chili flakes. Like it really fiery? Just stir in more to your taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this An Amazing Ultimate is naturally vegetarian as long as your Parmesan is made without animal rennet. Always check your cheese to be sure.

Is there a way to make it lighter?

You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a thick plant-based milk, and use less cheese if you prefer. While it’ll be a bit less rich, you’ll retain that signature color and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you dive into this incredible Creamy Basil & Calabrian Chili Cavatelli and discover how an An Amazing Ultimate pasta night can change your week! It’s spicy, creamy, herby, and packed with excitement in every bite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this luscious bowl of comfort and flavor tonight!

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