Cavatini (Pizza Hut)
A hearty baked pasta casserole combining savory meats, flavorful pepperoni, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. pork sausage ⓘ
- 1 lb. hamburger ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup green sweet pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (12 oz.) pkg. sliced pepperoni ⓘ
- 1 (32 oz.) jar Ragu Chunky Garden Style spaghetti sauce ⓘ
- 4 cups noodles (1 cup each of four different kinds), cooked and drained ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- garlic bread (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage, hamburger, chopped onion, and chopped green sweet pepper. Drain off excess fat.
- Add sliced pepperoni and spaghetti sauce to the skillet.
- Cook on medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add cooked and drained noodles.
- Stir well to combine.
- Turn the mixture into a greased or sprayed 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a 375°F oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
- Serve with optional garlic bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier version, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage. You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option. Feel free to mix different types of noodles, such as penne or fusilli, for added texture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles work well. This dish is perfect for a Brunch gathering or as a hearty dinner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cavatini with a side of garlic bread to complement the cheesy goodness. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can also make great accompaniments to balance the richness. This dish is excellent for meal prep, as it can be easily portioned for lunches throughout the week. Consider pairing it with a light red wine for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the cheese's meltiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cavatini (Pizza Hut) contains roughly 1046 calories, with 39g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), protein (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1790mg per serving (78% 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 Cavatini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cavatini a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What types of noodles are best for Cavatini?
A variety of noodles work well for Cavatini, including rotini, penne, fusilli, or even egg noodles. The key is to use a mix of textures and shapes to enhance the dish's overall appeal and ensure the sauce clings to each piece.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Cavatini freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).