There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of pasta to lift your spirits, especially when you can recreate a delicious dish right from your favorite restaurant. Imagine the delight as you recreate the iconic Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta in the comfort of your own kitchen! The first time I tried it, I was blown away by the explosion of flavors—the creaminess of the sauce combined with the subtle heat of red pepper flakes made every bite a sheer delight.
This creamy tomato sauce wraps around each curl of cavatappi, creating the perfect marriage of textures. The best part? You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip this up; it’s surprisingly simple and requires only a handful of basic ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply elevate your weeknight meals, this pasta will surely become a go-to favorite. Let’s dive in and bring some restaurant-worthy magic to your home cooking!
Why will you love Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta?
Bold flavors collide in this dish, making every bite a delightful experience.
Simplicity reigns with straightforward steps, perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Rich creaminess from heavy whipping cream enhances the savory notes of tomato.
Versatile option: customize the spice level to your liking or add veggies.
Crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
For more delightful pasta ideas, check out my ultimate guide to homemade sauces.
Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Cavatappi noodles – provides a delightful twist that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Pasta water – a secret ingredient to adjust the sauce’s texture and flavor.
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – adds depth of flavor and helps sauté the garlic beautifully.
- Garlic, minced – infuses the dish with aromatic goodness right from the start.
- Tomato paste – brings concentrated flavor, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Heavy whipping cream – delivers luxurious creaminess, making this a true copycat of Carbone’s creation.
- Kosher salt – essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste.
- Black pepper – adds a hint of warmth and spice, elevating the dish.
- Red pepper flakes – the star of the show, providing that signature spicy kick you crave!
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – brightens the dish with color and freshness, adding a lovely finish.
With these Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to enjoying this flavorful dish right at home!
How to Make Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta
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Cook cavatappi noodles according to package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. This water is crucial for the sauce’s consistency!
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, stirring gently for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
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Stir in tomato paste and allow it to cook for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and deepen in color.
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Pour in the heavy whipping cream slowly, stirring continuously until the mixture is well combined and silky smooth.
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Season the sauce with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Adjust the spices to your taste, ensuring that perfect balance of heat!
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Add the reserved pasta water into the sauce and stir thoroughly until combined, achieving that luscious, creamy texture you desire.
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Toss the cooked cavatappi noodles in the sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated and enveloped in that rich flavor.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to this delightful dish.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra red pepper flakes for added spice!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy tomato sauce up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its rich flavor. When ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently on the stove and stir in the cooked cavatappi noodles (which can be made fresh or also prepped ahead). For the best results, reserve the pasta water until you’re ready to toss everything together—this keeps the sauce luxuriously creamy and prevents it from thickening too much. You’ll enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort and all the deliciousness of a restaurant-quality dish!
What to Serve with Cavatappi in Creamy Tomato Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that enhance the rich creaminess of this pasta.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness of garlic bread perfectly complements the creamy sauce, inviting a cozy feel to your meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned to perfection, these caramelized veggies offer a delightful bitter contrast, making every bite exciting.
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Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this classic appetizer adds a vibrant freshness that enhances the creamy richness of your dish.
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Cheesy Gratin: A comforting side of cheesy potato or vegetable gratin creates a symphony of flavors that pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp drizzled with vanilla ice cream brings a lovely sweetness that contrasts the savory dish wonderfully.
Whether you’re gathering for a lively family dinner or a quiet evening in, these pairings will create a memorable meal experience!
Expert Tips for Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta
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Perfect Pasta: Always cook cavatappi noodles al dente, as they’ll continue to soften in the sauce. This texture keeps your dish perfectly balanced.
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Reserve Water: Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. It adds flavor and ensures everything combines beautifully.
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Sauté with Care: Sauté garlic gently to avoid burning. Cooking it just until fragrant preserves its sweet aroma and flavor, enhancing your pasta sauce.
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Custom Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat. Start with less if you’re unsure, as it’s easy to add more without overpowering the dish.
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Garnish with Love: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also fresh, bright notes to your creamy sauce, making your dish Instagram-worthy!
Embrace these tips for a flawless serving of Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta every time!
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop for best results.
Reheating: Warm the pasta on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired creaminess.
Serving Tips: For extra freshness, garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving, bringing a burst of color and flavor back to your Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta.
Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta Variations
Customize your dish and bring even more excitement to your plate with these delicious twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy. This will add a subtle sweetness to the sauce.
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Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Their earthy notes complement the creamy base beautifully.
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Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage to give your pasta a hearty finish. Each bite will be even more satisfying!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cavatappi or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. The flavors of the sauce will still shine through with this swap.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic kick that brightens the dish even more. Fresh herbs offer delightful notes that elevate each bite.
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Extra Heat: Amp up the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños for a fiery twist! If you’re a spice lover, this is a fun way to bring the heat.
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Creamy Spinach: Blend in some pureed spinach to maintain the creaminess while adding a pop of vibrant green. It’s a sneaky way to include more veggies!
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Nutty Flavor: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Their rich, nutty profile beautifully contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cavatappi noodles?
Absolutely! Look for cavatappi noodles that are firm and free of any dark spots or breaks. Ideally, they should be bright in color and feel slightly rough to the touch. This texture helps the sauce cling beautifully, enhancing each delightful bite.
How should I store leftover Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta?
For optimal freshness, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to help restore the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
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Can I freeze Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, portion out the pasta in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop with a bit of reserved pasta water for the best results.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
Very common! If the sauce is too thick for your liking, simply stir in a bit more of the reserved pasta water or additional cream. Start with a tablespoon at a time and mix until you achieve the creaminess you desire. Don’t hesitate to adjust those spices again if adding more liquid!
Are there any dietary considerations for Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta?
Definitely! This dish can be made gluten-free by substituting cavatappi noodles with a gluten-free pasta option. Additionally, if you’re concerned about dairy, try using non-dairy cream alternatives that still offer that velvety texture. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially if serving guests!
How can I make Copycat Carbone’s Spicy Pasta more flavorful?
For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables—like spinach or mushrooms—into the sauce for added nutrition and taste. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, which can elevate the dish to new heights!
Copycat Carbone's Spicy Pasta: A Flavor Explosion at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook cavatappi noodles according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and allow it to cook for a few minutes to deepen flavor.
- Pour in heavy whipping cream slowly, stirring continuously until well combined.
- Season sauce with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
- Add reserved pasta water into the sauce and stir until combined.
- Toss cooked cavatappi noodles in the sauce until well coated.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
