Cavatini

Cavatini Recipe - Authentic Italian Comfort Food

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cavatini is a delicious and hearty pasta dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Cavatini is a popular Italian-American dish that is believed to have originated in the United States. It is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for serving at family gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) ground beef
8 oz (227 g) bag Sea Shell noodles
1 package pepperoni
1 large bell pepper
1 large onion
1 small can mushrooms (Pieces & Stems)
6 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
6 cups Shredded Mozzerella cheese

How to prepare

Boil the noodles and set them aside.
In a small bowl, cut up the bell pepper, onion, mushrooms, and one side of the pepperoni. Mix them in a skillet and add ground beef.
Brown the ground beef with the above ingredients and drain.
Drain the noodles and get a large baking dish.
Put a layer of noodles, add a layer of the meat mixture, and add a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Continue layering until all the noodles, meat, and cheese are gone.
Top with the remaining pepperoni.
Put in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Variations

Add cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as Parmesan or provolone, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the ground beef well after browning to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and meats.

- Make sure to cook the noodles al dente so they don't become mushy when baked in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cavatini with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground beef and vegetables before layering them in the baking dish helps to develop the flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables or meats in this recipe with your favorites.

Make Ahead Tips

Cavatini can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Cavatini with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cavatini with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cavatini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cavatini contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cavatini contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cavatini contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cavatini contains approximately 35 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cavatini is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (noodles).

Summary

Cavatini is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cavatini is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with flavor and easy to customize, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a warm summer day, and I was helping my neighbor, Mrs. O'Brien, clean out her old recipe box. As we sifted through the yellowed index cards and faded clippings, I stumbled upon a handwritten recipe for Cavatini. Mrs. O'Brien explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, and she graciously allowed me to make a copy to try at home.

Excited to try something new, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The recipe called for a mix of pasta, ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, and a homemade marinara sauce. I spent hours simmering the sauce, layering the meats, and baking the dish until it was bubbly and golden brown.

When I finally took my first bite of Cavatini, I was transported to a cozy Italian kitchen filled with laughter and love. The flavors were rich and comforting, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own home.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for Cavatini, making small tweaks and adjustments to suit my family's tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who always ask for seconds and thirds. It has become a signature dish of mine, and I am proud to carry on the tradition that Mrs. O'Brien started so many years ago.

The key to a good Cavatini, I have learned, is to use quality ingredients and to take your time with each step. The homemade marinara sauce is the heart of the dish, so I always start by simmering fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs until they are fragrant and thick. I then brown the ground beef and sausage, adding in spices like oregano and basil for extra depth of flavor.

Once the sauce and meats are ready, I boil the pasta until it is al dente and mix it all together in a large baking dish. I top the Cavatini with slices of pepperoni and a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese before popping it in the oven to bake.

As the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory meats fills the kitchen, I can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and contentment. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to show love and care for my family and friends. And with each bite of Cavatini, I know that I am continuing a legacy of delicious food and cherished memories.

So the next time you're looking for a hearty and comforting meal to share with loved ones, consider making a batch of Cavatini. It may take some time and effort, but the end result is well worth it. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass on the recipe to someone special, just like Mrs. O'Brien did for me.