Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Fusilli, a type of corkscrew-shaped pasta, is a hidden gem that’s just begging to be showcased. Its unique shape makes it perfect for trapping sauces and adding texture to any dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, we’ve got 20 delicious fusilli recipes to spice up your weeknights.
From classic combinations like cream and parmesan to bold flavors like spicy tomato and pesto, our recipe list has something for everyone. And the best part? These dishes are all quick, easy, and packed with flavor – perfect for a busy evening when you need something satisfying and delicious on the table in no time.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fusilli
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this rich and satisfying pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle flour over the garlic mixture and whisk together. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss until coated.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato Basil Fusilli
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful Spicy Tomato Basil Fusilli recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli with Roasted Vegetables and Pesto
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted vegetables with the creamy richness of pesto, all wrapped up in a delicious fusilli pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted vegetables and pesto. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet and toss with vegetable mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Fusilli
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and refreshing Lemon Butter Shrimp Fusilli recipe, featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce, served over tender fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low and add lemon juice, white wine (if using), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
8. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with pasta and sauce.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli Carbonara with Pancetta
This classic Italian recipe combines the rich flavors of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese with the playful twist of fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (120ml) 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 the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Add the cooked fusilli pasta to the egg mixture and toss until coated.
6. Add the crispy pancetta to the pasta and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Fusilli Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this Mediterranean-inspired fusilli dish combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Top with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe, all wrapped up in a delightful fusilli pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups (400g) broccoli rabe, stems chopped and leaves torn
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth
– 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 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add broccoli rabe, garlic, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until broccoli rabe is tender but still crisp (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sausage mixture in the skillet. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Fusilli
This vibrant pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the nutrients of spinach, all wrapped up in a delightful fusilli shape. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and spinach leaves to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked fusilli pasta with the tomato-spinach mixture. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make Fusilli Alfredo with Grilled Chicken recipe. Tender grilled chicken, smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce and served with perfectly cooked fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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 to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked fusilli pasta and Alfredo sauce. Toss until coated.
8. Slice grilled chicken and serve with fusilli pasta.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Fusilli with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of basil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes with the fun twist of fusilli pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 the pesto sauce over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto and tomato mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Mushrooms and White Wine Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms with a creamy white wine sauce, served atop al dente fusilli pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in white wine and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Combine cooked fusilli pasta with mushroom and white wine sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Fusilli Bolognese
This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef bolognese with the convenience of a one-pot meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup fusilli pasta
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fusilli pasta, crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fusilli Primavera with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and nutritious pasta dish. Fusilli Primavera is a quick and easy recipe that highlights the best of the season’s fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fusilli with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the twirling fun of fusilli pasta with the bold, spicy kick of homemade arrabbiata sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 red pepper flakes (depending on desired level of heat)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Combine cooked fusilli pasta with reserved pasta water and arrabbiata sauce. Toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fusilli Caprese with Fresh Mozzarella
Celebrate the flavors of Italy with this vibrant and refreshing Fusilli Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup (15g) extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp (30g) balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the bowl and toss again to distribute the ingredients evenly.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fusilli with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Italy with this simple and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the tops off the red bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and charred.
5. Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Peel the roasted bell peppers, removing as much skin as possible, and place in a blender or food processor with remaining olive oil and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Blend until smooth, adding some grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Toss cooked pasta with roasted red pepper sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fusilli with Lemon Ricotta and Peas
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon, all wrapped up in a fun and playful fusilli pasta. The addition of sweet peas adds natural sweetness to balance out the dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 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 medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add thawed peas to the ricotta mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add cooked fusilli pasta to the bowl and toss with the ricotta-pea mixture until well coated.
5. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve immediately, with reserved pasta water available if needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Garlic Butter Scallops
Savor the simplicity of this delightful pasta dish as succulent scallops mingle with garlic butter and twirl around fusilli noodles.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 lb scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 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 skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove scallops from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and stir in remaining 1 tbsp butter until melted.
5. Toss cooked fusilli with garlic butter mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve warm, topped with cooked scallops and garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Creamy Avocado Pesto
This recipe combines the classic Italian pasta dish with a creamy and nutritious twist, featuring avocado pesto as the main attraction. The result is a rich, velvety sauce that complements the corkscrew-shaped fusilli perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fusilli pasta
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fusilli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the blended mixture to cooked fusilli and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fusilli with Butternut Squash and Sage
A seasonal twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of butternut squash with the earthy taste of sage. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook fusilli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and sage leaves in remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil until fragrant.
5. Add the roasted squash to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic-sage mixture.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the squash mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas? Look no further! This article features 20 mouthwatering fusilli recipes perfect for weeknights. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy tomato basil, and from Mediterranean salad to sun-dried tomato and spinach, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian dishes or a flavorful fusion of herbs and spices, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
