Cavatene
A hearty baked pasta dish combining flavorful ground beef, melted cheeses, and savory sauce, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with a cheesy, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef with the chopped onion and mango until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and spaghetti sauce to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. If you don’t have spaghetti sauce on hand, consider using Basic Italian Sauce(Multi-Purpose) as a flavorful alternative. Additionally, feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Cavatene pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an Italian-themed dinner, serve it alongside a glass of Chianti or a refreshing iced tea. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top before serving for a gooey finish, or consider serving it with a side of Cheese-Filled Italian Meat Loaf for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cavatene contains roughly 819 calories, with 40g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Simply combine them when you're ready to bake. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights. Just ensure to store everything separately until you are ready to bake to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.
Can I freeze Cavatene?
Absolutely! You can freeze Cavatene before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to instructions, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you're not a fan of pepperoni, try using diced ham, cooked sausage, or even a meatless alternative like mushrooms or olives for a vegetarian version. You can also omit it entirely and enhance the dish with more cheese or vegetables for added flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).