If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish to warm up your home, look no further than Baked Cavatelli. This classic Italian pasta dish is a perfect combination of hearty flavors and gooey cheese that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply craving some cozy comfort food, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch of this irresistible Baked Cavatelli!
**Baked Cavatelli**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound cavatelli pasta
– 1 pound ground Italian sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the cavatelli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess grease.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for a few minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked cavatelli pasta and the sausage-tomato sauce until well combined.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Once done, remove the Baked Cavatelli from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Enjoy this hearty and cheesy Baked Cavatelli with your loved ones for a cozy and satisfying meal that will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The combination of savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete dining experience. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet irresistible recipe!
