Cowboy Cavatappi

Cowboy Cavatappi is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm blanket and begs for seconds. With creamy cheese, seasoned beef, and just the right kick from spices, it’s a hearty meal that feels both soothing and satisfying. Picture this: a busy weeknight after a long day, and you’re craving something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. That’s where this recipe shines. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but packs enough flavor to impress your family or friends. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder? Gather up your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready! This Cowboy Cavatappi is about to take your dinner to new heights.

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Why This Recipe Works

Cowboy Cavatappi masterfully combines hearty ingredients to create a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creaminess from the cheeses, coupled with the spices, elevates this dish from a simple pasta to a comforting culinary experience. Using cavatappi, a pasta designed to hold on to sauce, ensures every bite bursts with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Cavatappi

This Cowboy Cavatappi recipe is a synergy of comfort and ease. Imagine digging into a bowl of cheesy, beefy goodness that’s not just delicious but also quick to prepare. It brings the spirit of the Wild West right into your kitchen, making it a fun and engaging meal for family and friends. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cavatappi pasta
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon hamburger seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
• 1 cup (165 g) frozen corn
• 1 cup (238 g) heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups (226 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup (56.5 g) pepper jack cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Bring Water to Boil and Cook Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the cavatappi according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. Set the cooked pasta and reserved water aside. This little trick keeps the sauce moist and flavorful!

Sauté Beef and Vegetables

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon until browned and the veggies have softened, about 5–6 minutes. If needed, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily.

Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the hamburger seasoning, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well. The aromas will make your kitchen feel inviting!

Combine Base Ingredients

Introduce the undrained diced tomatoes, frozen corn, and heavy cream into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, and allow it to cook for 5 minutes. This step really lets the flavors meld together, giving you that rich taste.

Melt the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low, and gradually stir in the sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. The melty, cheesy goodness is where the magic really happens.

Mix in the Pasta

Fold the cooked cavatappi into the skillet, stirring until fully coated in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired sauce consistency. The pasta should embrace that sauce perfectly!

Garnish and Serve

Finish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the flavors of Cowboy Cavatappi! The vibrant green from the parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste.

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing your Cowboy Cavatappi with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Both options add texture and freshness to balance the richness of the dish. A refreshing iced tea or a bold red wine can enhance your dining experience, bringing it all together nicely.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning when cooking the beef; this keeps it nice and even.
• For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce; it can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
• Adjust the cream and cheese quantities depending on your preferred creaminess; you know your taste best!

Variations

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, which works just as well.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and variety.
• Try using different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique twist that caters to your taste buds.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little extra cream or milk to loosen the sauce since it may thicken in the fridge. You can enjoy those delicious flavors again without too much fuss!

FAQs

1. Can I make Cowboy Cavatappi ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve; it flavors even better the next day.

2. Can I freeze Cowboy Cavatappi?
Absolutely! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. What can I substitute for cavatappi pasta?
Penne or fusilli work well if cavatappi is unavailable; both can hold that delicious sauce.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Sure! Omit the beef and add more vegetables or beans as a protein substitute.

5. How spicy is this Cowboy Cavatappi recipe?
The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder or adding jalapeños to suit your preference.

Savor every mouthful of this Cowboy Cavatappi and let the flavors transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and happiness. This recipe embodies comfort food at its best, perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Whether it’s the creamy texture, the savory depth, or the vibrant colors, each bowl tells a story of culinary delight. Enjoy the deliciousness and make it a tradition!

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