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Irresistibly Cheesy Cavatini for Cozy Family Nights

This Cavatini is a deliciously cheesy blend of pasta and savory ingredients, perfect for family nights and potlucks.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 pound rotini pasta You can substitute with cavatappi for a fun twist!
Vegetables
  • 1 Tablespoon oil Use olive oil for a heartier flavor.
  • 1 cup diced green pepper Try red bell pepper for a sweeter taste.
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion Red onions add a vibrant color and sharpness.
Meats
  • ½ pound Italian sausage For a spicy kick, opt for hot Italian sausage.
  • ½ pound ground beef Ground turkey works well for a leaner option.
  • ½ 6 ounce bag pepperoni slices Mini pepperoni adds a fun bite and flavor.
Cheeses
  • 6 ounce bag shredded parmesan cheese Freshly grated parmesan enhances the flavor.
  • 8 ounce bag shredded mozzarella cheese Use low-moisture mozzarella for perfect melting (2 cups, divided use).
Sauce
  • 2 24 ounce jars pasta sauce Choose your favorite marinara for a rich taste.

Equipment

  • Casserole dish
  • large pot
  • medium skillet
  • colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add in the rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add diced green pepper and yellow onion, sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
  4. Add Italian sausage and ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  5. Combine sautéed vegetables and cooked meats with the rotini pasta in the stock pot, mixing well.
  6. Add pepperoni slices, parmesan cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and both jars of pasta sauce. Stir until well incorporated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover with non-stick aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is golden.
  9. Let cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allowing the Cavatini to rest helps the layers set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

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