Kathy'S Cavatini
Kathy's Cavatini is a hearty baked pasta dish featuring tender noodles, savory hamburger, spicy pepperoni, and melted cheese. Topped with flavorful pizza and spaghetti sauces, it's perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, offering a comforting blend of Italian-inspired flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until done, then drain in a colander and set aside.
- Brown the hamburger meat, then drain in a colander.
- Mix the cooked noodles with the cooked hamburger.
- Add the pepperoni to the noodle mixture.
- Combine the pizza sauce and spaghetti sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture into a glass baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using Italian sausage instead of hamburger for added flavor. You can also substitute the pepperoni with sliced smoked sausage or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables or beans. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kathy's Cavatini with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can enhance the presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with Auntie Mickey's Italian Stuffed Peppers for a delightful Italian feast. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cavatini in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathy'S Cavatini contains roughly 407 calories, with 8g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value) and iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 569mg per serving (25% 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 Kathy's Cavatini ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Kathy's Cavatini ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What kind of noodles work best for this recipe?
You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but penne or rotini work particularly well because they hold the sauce nicely. If you want a lower-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
Can I freeze Kathy's Cavatini?
Absolutely! Kathy's Cavatini freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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).