Baked Cavatelli Recipe

This irresistible Baked Cavatelli casserole is a family favorite, even for picky eaters! A winning combination of savory sausage (mild and spicy!), tender cavatelli pasta, wilted spinach, and vibrant red peppers, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Originally discovered in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine, this recipe has been a staple for years, consistently delivering delicious leftovers (if any!). Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. Prep some extra sausage to freeze for future spaghetti and meatballs!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 757.9 kcal
Protein 66g
Rating 4.5 (4 Reviews)
Baked Cavatelli 102

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Baked Cavatelli

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How to Make Baked Cavatelli

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook 1 pound of cavatelli pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. While pasta cooks, brown 1 pound of Italian sausage (1/2 pound mild, 1/2 pound spicy) in a skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess grease.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked cavatelli, sausage, 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained), 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the pasta water over the spinach to help wilt it while you combine the rest of the ingredients. Stir in the spinach.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

85 g

Sugar

88g

Fat

67g

Carbs

24g