Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta has become my absolute go-to for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. I remember the first time I made this creamy twisted pasta Alfredo; the aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen, and my family practically ran to the table! The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that rich, velvety sauce is just pure comfort food. It’s a dish that always impresses, even though it’s surprisingly simple to whip up. This easy cheesy pasta bake is perfect for anyone craving a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

It’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
The sauce is luxuriously creamy and packed with cheesy goodness.
Golden garlic butter chicken adds a delicious, savory protein boost.
This homemade cheesy Alfredo twisted pasta tastes gourmet but is super easy.
The twisted pasta shape is fun and holds the sauce beautifully.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will devour.
You can easily customize this creamy twisted pasta Alfredo with your favorite veggies.
It’s the best cheesy Alfredo pasta dish for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious cheesy pasta with Alfredo sauce. I’ve found that using fresh ingredients makes a world of difference in the final flavor!

8 oz twisted pasta – I love using rotini or fusilli for this recipe as they hold the sauce so well.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total) – Pounding them to an even thickness ensures they cook uniformly.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is key for that wonderful aroma and flavor.
2 tbsp butter – This forms the base of our savory sauce.
1 tbsp olive oil – Used for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
1 cup heavy cream – The foundation for our ultra-creamy Alfredo sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts best and adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – This adds that extra gooey, cheesy stretch we all love.
1/2 tsp salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1/4 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is always best for a little kick.
1/4 tsp paprika – Adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color to the chicken.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – For a burst of freshness and a pretty garnish.

Ingredients for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

How to Make Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This recipe for cheesy Alfredo twisted pasta comes together so quickly, you’ll be amazed. Follow these simple steps and get ready for a dinner that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious. The aroma alone will have your taste buds singing!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 8 oz twisted pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. I like to taste a piece to make sure it’s just right – not too soft, not too firm. Once cooked, drain the pasta well, but don’t rinse it! The little bit of starch left on the noodles helps the creamy sauce cling beautifully. Set the drained pasta aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, prepare your chicken. Pat the 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season them generously on all sides with the 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp paprika. Heat the 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for about 5-6 minutes per side. You’re looking for a gorgeous golden-brown crust. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting period keeps the chicken incredibly juicy!
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
With the chicken resting, it’s time to create that irresistible sauce. In the same skillet you used for the chicken (no need to clean it – those browned bits are flavor!), melt the 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching. Gradually whisk in the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep whisking until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth, velvety, and starting to thicken. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple cream into a rich, delicious sauce for your creamy twisted pasta Alfredo.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Now for the grand finale! Add the cooked and drained twisted pasta and the sliced chicken to the skillet with the luscious Alfredo sauce. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or tongs, ensuring every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Let it warm through for just about one minute – you don’t want to overcook the pasta at this stage. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in the 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this delightful cheesy chicken pasta Alfredo immediately while it’s hot and gloriously creamy.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Elevating this already amazing dish is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips ensure your cheesy Alfredo twisted pasta is restaurant-quality every single time. I’ve learned these through trial and error, and they make a huge difference!

Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; the pre-shredded kind has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
Don’t overcook your pasta! It will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the hot sauce, so al dente is key.
Pound your chicken breasts thin and even. This ensures they cook quickly and stay tender and juicy, making this a truly quick dinner.
Reserve a little pasta water before draining. If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of this starchy water can help loosen it up perfectly.

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

The secret lies in the pan sauce technique. Sautéing the garlic in butter and olive oil until fragrant, then simmering the cream before adding cheese, builds a rich flavor base for your creamy twisted pasta Alfredo. For more on building flavor in sauces, check out this guide to cowboy butter.

Can I make Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge. However, it’s best to cook the pasta just before serving and combine everything right before you plan to eat for optimal texture and creaminess.

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

Avoid burning the garlic by keeping the heat low and sautéing briefly. Also, don’t rinse the pasta after draining; the starch helps bind the sauce. Lastly, resist the urge to overcook the pasta initially. Understanding proper cooking techniques is key, much like when preparing perfectly seared scallops.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This rich and comforting cheesy Alfredo pasta dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to complete your dinner. For a balanced meal, I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus are also fantastic companions, adding color and nutrients. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, a slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra creamy Alfredo sauce. This quick cheesy Alfredo pasta recipe is versatile and always a hit! For more ideas on great pairings, consider these jerk chicken side dishes which offer a different flavor profile but similar pairing principles.

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This recipe for cheesy Alfredo twisted pasta is a hearty and satisfying meal. Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving. Remember, these are approximate numbers and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 650
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Leftovers of this delicious creamy spiral pasta Alfredo are a treat, but proper storage is key to enjoying them later. Once your pasta has cooled down slightly (don’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours), transfer it into airtight containers. You can store this creamy cheesy pasta bake recipe in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Gently warm refrigerated portions in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess, or microwave on 50% power until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Can I add vegetables to this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

Absolutely! This creamy twisted pasta Alfredo is a fantastic base for adding veggies. I love tossing in steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or wilted spinach during Step 4. They add extra color, nutrients, and a lovely texture contrast to the creamy sauce.

What kind of pasta is best for this Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta?

While the recipe calls for twisted pasta, feel free to experiment! Shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even penne work wonderfully because their nooks and crannies are perfect for catching the rich Alfredo sauce. Using a pasta shape that holds sauce well is key to enjoying this cheesy chicken pasta Alfredo.

My Alfredo sauce is too thick, what should I do?

Don’t worry if your sauce gets a bit thick! This can happen as it cools. The best trick, which I learned from my grandmother when making her famous creamy spiral pasta Alfredo, is to add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water or a splash of milk. Stir gently until it reaches your desired consistency. It helps loosen the sauce without diluting the flavor.

Can I make this a vegetarian Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta dish?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian! Simply omit the chicken and proceed with the pasta and sauce. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for extra heartiness. It’s still a delicious cheesy pasta with Alfredo sauce.

Variations of Cheesy Alfredo Twisted Pasta You Can Try

Looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes? This versatile cheesy pasta bake is the perfect canvas for all sorts of delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of this creamy, dreamy pasta:

Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce along with the garlic. You could also mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor in your creamy twisted pasta Alfredo.
Veggie Lover’s Delight: Bulk up this dish with your favorite vegetables! Sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli or asparagus, sun-dried tomatoes, or wilted spinach are all fantastic additions. Toss them in during Step 4 for a more complete meal.
Seafood Twist: Swap the chicken for shrimp or scallops. Sauté them quickly in the skillet after the garlic but before the cream, then remove and add back in Step 4. This makes for a luxurious cheesy Alfredo pasta dish with a delightful seafood flavor.
Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a slightly lighter take, you can try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich. You could also add more vegetables and less pasta to create a lighter pasta bake.