Candy Cane Pasta is the epitome of wintery fun meets luxurious comfort food, wrapping up creamy Parmesan-coated noodles with unexpected pops of color and sweet crunch. This showstopper dish brings together gently sautéed garlic, a sumptuously velvety cream sauce, and artful swirls of red and white pasta topped with crushed candy canes. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, wooing kids to the dinner table, or just treating yourself, Candy Cane Pasta turns an ordinary evening into a festive celebration—and trust me, you’ll want to make it part of your holiday traditions!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of everyday ingredients can come together to create a dish that looks like it leapt off a holiday card. Each element, from pantry staples to the surprise sparkle of crushed candy canes, is essential for that perfect marriage of flavor and flair.

Fettuccine or linguine (8 ounces): These long, flat noodles are perfect for capturing creamy sauces and showing off colorful stripes.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): This lays the flavorful base and helps the garlic gently release its aroma.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Key for an irresistible backbone of savory flavor throughout the sauce.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Elevates the sauce to a luxe, silky consistency that coats each noodle.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty bite and ensures the sauce thickens just right.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balancing the richness and brightening each layer of the dish.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the candy cane finish.
Red food coloring (gel or liquid): Just a few drops will transform the pasta into eye-catching red “stripes.”
Crushed candy canes (2 tablespoons): These offer a whimsical, crunchy, and slightly minty finish for true holiday spirit.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green adds color contrast and a burst of freshness.

How to Make Candy Cane Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fettuccine or linguine and cook following package instructions until al dente—just tender but perfectly springy. This base is what allows all the colors and creamy sauce to shine!

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the pasta simmers, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until the fragrance hits your senses (don’t let it brown). Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle in the Parmesan, salt, and pepper, then simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until everything melts into a luscious, thickened sauce.

Step 3: Divide and Color the Candy Cane Pasta

Once the pasta is ready, drain well and divide it evenly into two bowls. In one bowl, add a few drops of red food coloring. Gently toss until you achieve a vibrant red hue. Leave the other portion plain—this way, you have both “candy cane” colors side by side.

Step 4: Plate with Stripes and Swirls

Alternately twirl red and plain noodles onto your plates, forming dramatic, festive spirals reminiscent of an actual candy cane. This playful presentation is what makes Candy Cane Pasta such a visual delight; have fun with the stripes!

Step 5: Finish with Sauce and Garnishes

Generously spoon the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over the striped pasta. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for a crunchy, minty twist, and add a handful of fresh basil or parsley if you want a final pop of color. Serve Candy Cane Pasta piping hot and watch everyone’s faces light up!

How to Serve Candy Cane Pasta

Garnishes

A flourish of crushed candy canes gives each plate that magical holiday sparkle and a subtle sweet-mint crunch. If you’re feeling extra festive, scatter a few torn basil or parsley leaves across the top for a gorgeous green contrast that really brings the Candy Cane Pasta to life.

Side Dishes

Pair your Candy Cane Pasta with a simple green salad tossed in lemony vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness, or serve roasted Brussels sprouts for something warm and hearty. Garlic bread or focaccia is also fabulous for mopping up every bit of that dreamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try twirling the red and white noodles together in mini nests on a large platter for guests to serve themselves family-style, or arrange single servings in small ramekins for a dinner party. For a kids’ table, let little chefs add their own candy cane toppings and fresh herbs—it’s as fun to decorate as it is to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Candy Cane Pasta can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The colors will hold beautifully, and the sauce remains creamy with just a quick toss before reheating. If possible, store the crushed candy canes separately and sprinkle them fresh each time you serve.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh (that swirl is hard to resist!), you can freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to one month. Red noodles may fade slightly, but the fun holiday spirit remains. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best flavor and texture, reheat Candy Cane Pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in 30-second bursts—just wait until after warming to add fresh garnishes and crushed candy canes.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape instead of fettuccine or linguine?

Absolutely! While long, flat noodles best showcase the festive stripes of Candy Cane Pasta, feel free to swap in spaghetti or even penne. Just keep in mind that the effect is most striking with wide noodles for those candy cane-inspired swirls.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes for the topping?

Place the candy canes in a zip-top bag and gently bash them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a skillet. Aim for a mix of small shards and a little candy “dust” for both color and texture. Sprinkle them on just before serving for maximum crunch!

Is there a way to make Candy Cane Pasta dairy-free or vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with your favorite unsweetened plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk, and use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The result will still be creamy and festive!

Will the red food coloring stain my bowls or utensils?

Gel or high-quality liquid food coloring shouldn’t stain ceramic or metal, but avoid plastic or porous surfaces if you’re concerned. Wash up promptly after tossing your Candy Cane Pasta, and you’ll keep your kitchenware looking like new.

Can I make Candy Cane Pasta in advance for a party?

You can cook, color, and prep the pasta ahead of time—just keep the noodles and sauce separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently, plate with swirls, and add toppings for a dish that dazzles with minimal last-minute effort!

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for a special occasion to bring joy to your table: whip up Candy Cane Pasta whenever you crave a dose of magic! You’ll love the playful presentation, the cozy, creamy flavor, and the happy smiles it brings. Give this recipe a try—and prepare for a new holiday favorite!

Candy Cane Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Candy Cane Pasta recipe is a festive and whimsical dish perfect for the holiday season. Featuring red and white pasta swirls reminiscent of candy canes, topped with a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and crushed candy cane bits, it’s a delightful main course that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Fettuccine or Linguine:

8 ounces

Olive Oil:

1 tablespoon

Garlic (minced):

2 cloves

Heavy Cream:

1/2 cup

Grated Parmesan Cheese:

1/2 cup

Salt:

1/2 teaspoon

Black Pepper:

1/4 teaspoon

Red Food Coloring:

Gel or liquid

Crushed Candy Canes:

2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Fresh Basil or Parsley:

Optional, for color contrast

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve: Drain the pasta and divide into two portions. Color one portion red with food coloring. Combine red and white noodles on plates in a swirl pattern. Drizzle with the creamy sauce, sprinkle crushed candy canes, and garnish with herbs.

Notes

For a sweeter version, use a white chocolate cream sauce instead of Parmesan.
For a kid-friendly twist, serve with marshmallow ‘meatballs’ or red and green sprinkles.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Holiday-Inspired