Irresistible Cavatini Recipe Featuring Hamburger and Sweet Italian Sausage

Cavatini is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. This recipe combines ground hamburger, sweet Italian sausage, and a medley of fresh and dried spices to create a meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you prefer traditional noodles or gluten-free options, this cavatini recipe is flexible and easy to customize. Let’s explore how to make this flavorful dish step-by-step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this cavatini, gather the following ingredients:

• Ground hamburger (about 1 pound)

• Sweet Italian sausage, cooked and sliced (about 1/2 pound)

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)

• Green bell pepper, diced (1 medium)

• Mini pepperoni (1/2 cup)

• Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups)

• Spaghetti sauce of your choice (about 3 cups)

• Noodles (12 ounces, use gluten-free noodles if preferred)

• Spices:

- Onion powder (1 teaspoon)

- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)

- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)

- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon)

- Salt and pepper to taste

This combination of ingredients balances savory meat flavors with the freshness of green pepper and the slight spice from mini pepperoni. The mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, binding the dish together.

Preparing the Meat and Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground hamburger and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Next, add the sliced sweet Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sausage is heated through and slightly browned.

Add the diced green pepper and mini pepperoni to the meat mixture. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers soften but still hold some crunch.

Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors evenly.

Cooking the Noodles

While the meat mixture cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. If you prefer gluten-free noodles, follow the same process but check the cooking time carefully as it may vary.

Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside.

Combining Ingredients for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, meat and vegetable mixture, and spaghetti sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Baking Your Cavatini

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with some golden spots on top.

For an extra touch, you can broil the cavatini for 2-3 minutes at the end to get a crispier cheese crust. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Let the cavatini cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.

Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also pair well with this dish.

Tips for Customizing Your Cavatini

• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, onions, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

• Cheese: Mix mozzarella with parmesan or provolone for a richer taste.

• Spices: Adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat.

• Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Sauce: Use homemade spaghetti sauce or your favorite store-bought brand.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works

This cavatini recipe stands out because it combines two types of meat, which adds depth and variety to the flavor. The sweet Italian sausage brings a mild spice and sweetness that complements the savory hamburger. The green pepper adds freshness and crunch, while the mini pepperoni introduces a subtle smoky note.

Using shredded mozzarella cheese creates a creamy, melty topping that holds the casserole together. Choosing gluten-free noodles ensures this dish can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture.

Final Thoughts on Making Cavatini

This cavatini recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic Italian-American comfort food with a twist. It’s easy to prepare, flexible with ingredients, and delivers satisfying flavors that appeal to all ages.