Cavatini

Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners, a potluck, or a meal train? This hearty cavatini combines pasta, meats, and melty cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal everyone will love. With layers of flavor and plenty of cheese, this baked pasta dish is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping a dish for the week ahead, or making something special for a friend, this cavatini will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

Cavatini Recipe

Once a popular dish at Pizza Hut, Cavatini is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying baked pasta dish that features a trio of pasta shapes, three kinds of meat, veggies, and cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re making a meal for a loved one in need, preparing for a church gathering, or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this hearty dish will bring comfort and joy to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 3 cups assorted short-cut pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni, shells)
• 2 pounds of ground beef (or 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of sausage)
• 1 (4-ounce) can mushrooms (pieces & stems) – about ½ cup
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• ½ cup green pepper, chopped
• 5 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 6 ounces pepperoni, sliced
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded -divided
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded -divided

How to Make Cavatini:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
   
3. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
   
4. Add onion, green pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-10 minutes until vegetables are softened.
   
   
5. Add the tomato sauce, olives, sugar, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and pepperoni. Combine all the ingredients.
   
6. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   
   
7. Combine the pasta, half of cheeses and sauce mixture in a large bowl, then spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
   
8. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. I probably use a bit more of each!
   
9. Bake for 25 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
   
10. Serve and enjoy!
    

This recipe is not only a family favorite but also a great way to share love and comfort through food. Whether you’re bringing a meal to a new mom, a grieving friend, or someone going through a tough time, this dish is sure to bring warmth and nourishment.

Why This Recipe Works for Meal Sharing:

• Easy to make – Simple ingredients come together for a hearty dish.
• Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks, meal trains, or sharing with a friend in need.
• Great for leftovers – Cavatini reheats beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

Have a friend in need? Here’s how to set up a meal train. Bringing comfort with delicious meals and thoughtful care tips is easier than you think.