What's the Best Substitute for Cavatappi?
Whether you're out of Cavatappi or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Corkscrew-shaped pasta with a hollow center and spiral ridges, great for holding sauces In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for cavatappi are fusilli, rotini, gemelli, or other spiral-shaped pasta depending on the dish.
Best Substitutes for Cavatappi
Fusilli
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Spiral-shaped pasta with similar texture and sauce-holding ability
Very similar spiral shape and cooking properties
Rotini
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Spiral-shaped pasta with similar texture and sauce-holding ability
Very similar spiral shape and cooking properties
Gemelli
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Twisted pasta with similar texture and sauce-holding ability
Similar twisted shape and cooking properties
Farfalle
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Bow-tie shaped pasta with good sauce-holding ability
Different shape but similar sauce-holding ability
Penne
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Tube-shaped pasta with good sauce-holding ability
Different shape but similar sauce-holding ability
Rigatoni
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta salads
- sauces
- casseroles
- soups
Description
Large tube-shaped pasta with good sauce-holding ability
Different shape but similar sauce-holding ability
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Cavatappi, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Cavatappi is great for holding chunky sauces and vegetables
The spiral shape helps trap sauce and dressing
Perfect for pasta salads and casseroles
Cook until al dente for best texture
Pairs well with both creamy and tomato-based sauces
Store in airtight container in cool, dry place
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications