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Spicy sausage cavatappi pasta in a black skillet, coated in a creamy red sauce, topped with melted mozzarella or Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.

Spicy Sausage Cavatappi Pasta

A rich, creamy, spicy pasta packed with bold flavors from sausage, peppers, and chili flakes. Perfect for weeknight comfort food!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 475
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 oz cavatappi pasta
  • 1 lb spicy beef sausage or spicy chicken sausage casings removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp chili flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pasta Pot

Method
 

  1. Cook the cavatappi pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spicy sausage and cook, breaking it apart, until browned.
  3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, or until softened.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili flakes, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and rich. Let it simmer on low for 3–4 minutes.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Stir in parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.

Notes

For extra heat, add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne. This pasta also reheats beautifully for meal prep!