Break-Up Pasta Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha chile sauce
• 1 1/4 cups tap water, plus more as needed
• 3 ounces uncooked cavatappi pasta (about 1 heaping cup)
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace.

Step 2: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Stir in the tomato sauce and Sriracha chile sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Slowly add the water, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add the uncooked cavatappi pasta to the skillet. Cook on medium heat, stirring often. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened and the pasta is al dente, approximately 16 to 18 minutes.

Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream. Continue stirring constantly for about 1 minute, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 7: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy, about 1 minute.

Step 8: If the sauce begins to thicken too much, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the pasta reaches your desired consistency.

Step 9: Transfer the pasta into a serving bowl and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 675
• Total Fat: 42g (54% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 25g (125% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 119mg (40% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 3018mg (131% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 60g (22% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (33% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 21g
• Protein: 20g (40% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 38mg (43% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 347mg (27% Daily Value)
• Iron: 6mg (34% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1645mg (35% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Break-Up Pasta

Break-Up Pasta, despite its playful name, has an interesting backstory rooted in practicality and comfort. The dish originated in American home kitchens as a quick, indulgent meal for those experiencing the emotional aftermath of a breakup. The idea was simple: a single-serving, rich, and creamy pasta that could be prepared with minimal effort but still deliver maximum comfort. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that are designed to serve a family or a group, Break-Up Pasta was created to cater to individual cravings, providing a warm, hearty meal for one.

Regional Variations

While the dish is broadly categorized under American cuisine, regional interpretations have emerged. In the Midwest, cooks often add extra cheese and a hint of smokiness with bacon or smoked paprika. On the West Coast, some versions incorporate fresh herbs like basil or a splash of white wine into the sauce to brighten the flavor. Despite these regional tweaks, the essence remains the same: a creamy tomato-based sauce combined with cavatappi pasta, offering both comfort and a hint of indulgence.

What Sets It Apart

Break-Up Pasta stands out from similar single-serving pasta dishes primarily due to its emotional branding and simplicity. Unlike macaroni and cheese, which is universally creamy but often baked, or spaghetti with marinara, which is traditionally served in larger portions, Break-Up Pasta is intentionally small, creamy, and slightly spicy thanks to Sriracha. Its unique cavatappi shape also helps the sauce cling perfectly, creating a harmonious bite that is both saucy and satisfying.

Typical Serving Context

This dish is most commonly enjoyed at home, often in casual settings like a solo dinner while watching a favorite show. It's a favorite among college students, young professionals, or anyone looking for a quick comfort meal. Some trendy cafs and modern bistros have even adopted it as a quirky menu item, presenting it in single bowls with optional toppings like extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, or chili flakes for an elevated experience.

Fun and Surprising Facts

• The name "Break-Up Pasta" was inspired by the idea that the dish is perfect for cooking for one, especially during emotional moments.
• The cavatappi pasta shape, often called "corkscrew pasta," was chosen specifically because it traps the creamy tomato sauce in its spirals, enhancing flavor in every bite.
• Some versions of the recipe substitute Sriracha with hot sauce or chili flakes depending on personal spice preference, showing the dishs versatility.
• Despite its reputation as a sad meal, the dish is surprisingly balanced, providing protein, carbs, and fat in one creamy bowl.
• Break-Up Pasta has become a social media favorite, with home cooks sharing photos of their perfectly gooey, cheesy bowls as a playful nod to single-life indulgence.

FAQ about Break-Up Pasta Recipe

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