When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats a delicious and satisfying bowl of pasta. And when that pasta is shaped like a corkscrew, it’s even more fun! Fusilli pasta is the perfect canvas for your favorite sauces and ingredients, and we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering recipes to spice up your mealtime routine.
From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy arrabbiata with fresh basil, these recipes showcase the versatility of fusilli pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a rich and indulgent baked dish, we’ve got you covered. So grab your favorite ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fusilli Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cream, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or protein.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in heavy cream over medium heat until fragrant and slightly reduced.
3. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked fusilli pasta and creamy sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Fusilli with Fresh Basil
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring spicy arrabbiata sauce and fresh basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the arrabbiata sauce and stir to combine with the reserved pasta water.
3. Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the spicy sauce.
4. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Fusilli with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the zest of lemon, the pungency of herbs, and the smokiness of grilled chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook fusilli according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
5. Add cooked fusilli to the skillet and toss to coat.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the pasta.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and colorful pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of fusilli pasta, the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the mixture, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Fusilli with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto and cherry tomatoes with the fun twist of fusilli pasta. The result is a vibrant, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, pesto, and roasted cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Baked Fusilli with Italian Sausage
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy, cheesy twist. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add garlic and marinara sauce to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Toss until cheese is evenly distributed.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fusilli Carbonara with Pancetta and Peas
This classic Italian recipe gets a fresh twist with the addition of peas, adding natural sweetness to balance out the richness. With only a few ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Add cooked pasta, peas, and Parmesan cheese to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Add cooked pancetta and toss everything together.
6. Season with black pepper and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Fusilli with Olives and Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the creaminess of feta cheese, the brininess of Kalamata olives, and the warmth of sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, diced
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the sliced olives, feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and add it to the pan with the olive mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Top with diced sun-dried tomatoes and serve.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Fusilli Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, featuring seasonal vegetables and a hint of Mediterranean flair. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. If using wine and broth, add to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Fusilli with Fresh Mozzarella
This classic Italian pasta dish is a symphony of flavors, with the sweetness of tomatoes and creaminess of fresh mozzarella perfectly balanced by the savory taste of basil. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Top pasta with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli Alfredo with Grilled Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering fusion of tender shrimp, rich Alfredo sauce, and nutty fusilli. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. Cook fusilli according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked pasta, grilled shrimp, and Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Fusilli with Chorizo and Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage, sweet bell peppers, and spicy Italian seasonings for a quick and satisfying one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
2. In the same pot, cook chorizo sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic; cook until peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in canned diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the pot; toss with chorizo mixture until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli Pasta Bake with Spinach and Ricotta
This comforting pasta bake combines the flavors of fusilli pasta, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese for a satisfying dinner. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 250g fusilli pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a baking dish, combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach mixture, and ricotta cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the comfort of fusilli with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli Puttanesca with Capers and Anchovies
This recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring the iconic combination of fusilli pasta, capers, anchovies, garlic, and olives. With its bold flavors and savory sauce, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and anchovy fillets; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add the sliced olives, chopped capers, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine. Toss cooked fusilli pasta with the puttanesca sauce until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta dish with a flavorful twist – roasted red pepper sauce. Sweet and smoky, this condiment brings depth to the simple yet satisfying fusilli.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
3. Peel off skin, then chop into 1-inch pieces.
4. Cook fusilli according to package instructions.
5. In a blender, combine roasted peppers, garlic, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
6. Toss cooked fusilli with the roasted red pepper sauce.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fusilli with Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
This hearty pasta dish combines the bold flavors of spicy sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe, all wrapped up in a springy fusilli noodle. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook fusilli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic and broccoli rabe to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked fusilli, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes.
Fusilli with Lemon Butter and Asparagus
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic pasta dish, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of fusilli with the zesty flavors of lemon butter and tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice and whisk until smooth.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill or steam asparagus until tender. Slice into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine cooked fusilli, lemon butter sauce, and asparagus in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto and Arugula
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of fusilli pasta, sun-dried tomato pesto, and peppery arugula for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
– 4 cups arugula
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the sun-dried tomato pesto and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet and toss with the pesto mixture until well coated.
4. Stir in the arugula and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Grilled Eggplant and Ricotta Salata
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the rich flavors of grilled eggplant, creamy ricotta salata cheese, and nutty fusilli pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz ricotta salata cheese, crumbled
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender.
3. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine grilled eggplant, cooked pasta, crumbled ricotta salata cheese, and chopped basil leaves (if using).
5. Toss gently to combine. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious fusilli pasta recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy arrabbiata, and from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to cheesy bakes, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your fusilli game with a range of sauces, including pesto, carbonara, and puttanesca. Plus, get creative with vegetarian and seafood options, and don’t miss the fun fusion recipes that combine Italian flavors with international twists. Whether you’re a pasta newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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