Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta: 10 Minute Dream

Name: Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta: 10 Minute Dream
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Garlic Butter Chicken:; 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes); 1 ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; For the Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta:; 12 oz rotini pasta (or other twisted pasta shapes); 4 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

by Jannet Lisa

3 de September de 2025

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Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta has a way of making any night feel special, and this recipe is my go-to for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. I remember the first time I tried making a homemade Alfredo sauce; I was so nervous it would be too complicated, but it turned out to be surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. The aroma of garlic butter chicken sizzling in the pan, combined with the creamy, cheesy sauce clinging to every twist of pasta, is just heavenly. This easy cheesy Alfredo pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly creamy and satisfying.
The garlic butter chicken adds a delicious, savory punch.
This twisted pasta Alfredo recipe is surprisingly quick and easy for a weeknight meal.

It’s a fantastic way to get your family to eat their pasta!
The combination of tender pasta and juicy chicken is pure comfort food.
It’s versatile – perfect for a casual dinner or even a potluck.

You’ll find this cheesy pasta Alfredo dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Gather these ingredients for a truly delicious cheesy pasta Alfredo dish:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes) – for that savory protein boost

1 ½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil – essential for searing the chicken

2 tbsp butter – for the chicken’s garlic butter finish
2 cloves garlic, minced – adds aroma to both chicken and sauce
12 oz rotini pasta (or other twisted pasta shapes) – my favorite is rotini for holding the sauce

4 tbsp butter – the base for our creamy sauce
1 ½ cups heavy cream – the heart of a rich Alfredo
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese – provides that signature cheesy flavor

½ tsp Italian seasoning – for an herbaceous note
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – adds a pop of color and freshness

How to Make Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Let’s whip up this incredibly satisfying cheesy Alfredo twisted pasta. It’s simpler than you might think!

Step 1: First things first, let’s prep our chicken. In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with 1 ½ tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The sizzle as it hits the pan is the first hint of deliciousness!

Step 3: In the final minute of cooking the chicken, add 2 tbsp butter and 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Baste the chicken with this fragrant garlic butter. It smells amazing! Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Now for the pasta! Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 12 oz of rotini pasta (or your favorite twisted pasta). Cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente, meaning it has a slight bite. Don’t overcook it, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 5: Before draining the pasta, scoop out and reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid gold is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Drain the rest of the pasta in a colander.

Step 6: In the same pot you used for the pasta (less cleanup!), melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 7: Pour in 1 ½ cups heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Keep whisking until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and lusciously creamy. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Season your creamy Alfredo sauce with salt and pepper to your liking. If it seems a bit too thick, now’s the time to stir in a tablespoon or two of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency for this cheesy pasta Alfredo dish.

Step 9: Add the cooked and drained rotini pasta directly into the pot with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently until every piece of pasta is coated in that glorious, cheesy sauce. This ensures your twisted pasta Alfredo recipe is perfectly integrated.
Step 10: Serve the pasta immediately, topped generously with the golden garlic butter chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if you have it – it really brightens up the dish! Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta!

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta: 10 Minute Dream - Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Want to elevate your Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta? Try these simple tricks for restaurant-quality results at home.

For the creamiest sauce, use good quality, freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your Alfredo sauce gritty.
Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! It’s the secret ingredient that helps emulsify the sauce and achieve that perfect, silky consistency.

Pat your chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking. This ensures you get a beautiful golden-brown sear, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Warm your heavy cream slightly before adding it to the sauce. This helps prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

The real secret to a perfect Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta is using quality ingredients and not rushing the sauce. Properly emulsifying the butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese with a little reserved pasta water creates that luxurious, velvety texture that makes this dish so irresistible. For more tips on achieving perfect pasta dishes, check out these latest recipes.

Can I make Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the components of this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta ahead of time, but it’s best assembled just before serving for optimal texture. Cook the chicken and pasta, and make the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently, then combine and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

A couple of common pitfalls with this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta are an oily or broken sauce and overcooked pasta. To prevent this, avoid boiling the cream vigorously and don’t add cold cream to hot ingredients. Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the warm sauce. For more guidance on cooking pasta, you might find information on proper cooking techniques helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This decadent Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions to create a complete dining experience. For a classic Italian-American feel, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the pasta perfectly. Another fantastic option is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce! If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider serving this Cheesy pasta Alfredo dish with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. It’s a hearty meal that’s always a hit. You might also enjoy our recipe for creamed asparagus as a side.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delightful Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta:

Calories: 650 kcal
Fat: 40 g

Saturated Fat: 20 g
Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
Trans Fat: 1 g

Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g

Sodium: 700 mg
Protein: 30 g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your Cheesy pasta Alfredo dish.

Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta: 10 Minute Dream - Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Properly storing your leftover Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta ensures it stays delicious for your next meal. Once it has cooled down slightly, transfer the pasta to airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy cheesy spiral pasta Alfredo again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or cream to the pot along with the pasta, and heat over low to medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through and the sauce is creamy again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

What makes Alfredo sauce so cheesy?

The magic behind that irresistible cheesy flavor in Alfredo sauce, and especially in this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta, comes from a generous amount of good quality Parmesan cheese. As it melts into the warm cream and butter, it creates that rich, savory, and wonderfully cheesy sauce that coats every twist of pasta.

Can I use different pasta shapes for this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta recipe?

Absolutely! While this Twisted pasta Alfredo recipe calls for rotini, you can easily substitute other pasta shapes that hold sauce well. Think fusilli, cavatappi, penne, or even shells. The key is a shape with nooks and crannies to capture all that delicious cheesy Alfredo sauce! For more pasta inspiration, explore our Greek Chili Chicken Alfredo.

How do I make a dairy-free Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

For a dairy-free version of this Creamy Alfredo pasta with cheese, you can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and a dairy-free cheese alternative. It makes for a delicious vegan option!

Is this Cheesy pasta Alfredo dish spicy?

This particular Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta recipe isn’t inherently spicy, as it focuses on the creamy, cheesy, and garlicky flavors. The paprika adds a touch of warmth and color, but not heat. If you enjoy a little kick, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top before serving.

Variations of Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta You Can Try

Ready to mix things up with your Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta? I love how versatile this dish is! Here are a few ideas to make it your own.

Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Twists: If you’re a fan of the original recipe, you already know how amazing chicken is with this. For a different twist, try grilling or pan-searing the chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor.
Cheesy Veggie Alfredo Pasta Twists: Load up on the greens! Add steamed broccoli florets, sautéed spinach, or roasted bell peppers to the pasta before serving. It’s a fantastic way to get more nutrients into this creamy cheesy spiral pasta Alfredo.

Spicy Alfredo Twist: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic when sautéing, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the Alfredo sauce. It gives this Parmesan Alfredo twisted pasta a delightful kick.
Baked Cheesy Alfredo Pasta Twists: Want to turn this into a casserole? Pour the sauced pasta into a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden and bubbly. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a Cheesy Alfredo pasta bake twists.