fusilli pasta recipe
The Best fusilli pasta recipe
I also appreciate how easy it is to customize. If you’re watching portions, swap out the cheese for a lighter variety or skip it altogether. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies—just toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach and let them meld into the sauce. And because it’s a short-cut pasta shape, it cooks faster than most, so you can throw it together in under 20 minutes. My family and I love it for everyday meals because it’s so adaptable, but it also works for special occasions—think game day dinners or holiday gatherings where you want something flavorful but not overly complicated. Plus, the way the sauce clings to the spirals makes every bite feel special, even with simple ingredients. It’s a dish that’s always a hit with little ones, too—no one complains about eating their veggies when it’s wrapped up in something tasty.
Creamy Garlic & Tomato Fusilli Pasta
A quick, flavorful pasta dish with tender fusilli tossed in a rich tomato-garlic sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb fusilli pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. -
2
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, simmering for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and butter. Simmer for another 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. -
4
Toss drained pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light, creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic & Tomato Fusilli Pasta Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic & Tomato Fusilli Pasta
What is the best way to prevent fusilli pasta from sticking together while cooking?
Use a large pot with plenty of salted boiling water. Stir the pasta gently but frequently with a wooden spoon to help it cling to the noodles rather than each other. Cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding can also reduce clumping.
Can I substitute regular pasta for fusilli?
Yes, you can use regular short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni, but fusilli’s distinctive spiral shape won’t be replicated. For best results, look for a spiral-cut pasta to mimic the texture and appearance.
How do I know when the fusilli is al dente?
Fusilli is done al dente when it has a slight bite to it—it should still have a tiny bit of resistance when you bite into it. Test a piece after about 8–10 minutes of cooking, depending on your pot size and stove heat.
What sauces work best with fusilli?
Fusilli’s light, hollow shape makes it ideal for sauces that cling well. Classic options include marinara, Alfredo, pesto, or creamy garlic butter. For a lighter touch, try olive oil with fresh herbs or a simple lemon-zest finish.
How should I store leftover fusilli?
Cool quickly in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, toss with a splash of pasta water and a pinch of salt, then warm gently over medium heat. For best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.
