Pizza Hut Cavatini Recipe

Recreate the iconic Pizza Hut Cavatini right at home with this hearty, cheesy pasta bake. Loaded with Italian sausage, pepperoni, fresh veggies, and a trio of pasta shapes, this dish is bursting with flavor and nostalgia. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: A mix of marinara, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and seasonings ensures every bite is delicious.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a melty, golden topping that’s irresistible.
• Hearty and Filling: With three types of pasta and plenty of protein, it’s a meal in itself.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite vegetables, meats, or even a vegetarian twist.
• Great for Gatherings: This dish serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Meat

• ½ lb Italian sausage
• ½ lb pepperoni
• ½ lb hamburger, cooked and crumbled

Produce

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Condiments

• 2 (32-ounce) jars of your favorite marinara sauce

Pasta & Grains

• ¼ lb corkscrew pasta
• ¼ lb shell pasta
• ¼ lb spiral pasta

Baking & Spices

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes

Dairy

• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 8 oz Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil the corkscrew, shell, and spiral pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage and hamburger until browned. Drain excess grease.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, sauté the onion, green bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened.

4. Combine the Sauce

• In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce with the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Add the cooked meats and sautéed vegetables, stirring to combine.

5. Assemble the Cavatini

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, sauce mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

6. Bake

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

• Let the cavatini cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the meats with diced zucchini, eggplant, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for more heat.
• Cheese Options: Try using cheddar, provolone, or ricotta for a different cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Meat Lovers: Add crumbled bacon or cubed ham for an extra meaty dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the baked cavatini (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use just one type of pasta?

Yes, but using a mix of pasta shapes adds texture and visual appeal to the dish.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the cavatini up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

3. What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can substitute marinara with a meat sauce, tomato basil sauce, or even Alfredo sauce for a creamy version.

4. Can I omit the pepperoni?

Yes, you can leave it out or replace it with another meat like chicken or turkey sausage.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking time, removing it only for the final 10–15 minutes.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Certainly! Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and olives all work well in this recipe.

7. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

It’s better to cook the pasta fresh and to al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.

8. What side dishes go well with cavatini?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

9. Is this dish spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit them for a milder flavor.

10. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh basil or oregano can be used. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Pizza Hut Cavatini is a nostalgic and comforting dish that’s easy to recreate at home. With its combination of hearty meats, rich sauce, and cheesy layers, it’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners or potlucks. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization, making it a go-to favorite that will please any crowd. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of classic Pizza Hut right from your kitchen!

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