Imagine biting into a warm, comforting dish where each forkful brings a delectable mix of flavors and textures, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with joy. That's exactly what you get with a Baked Cavatelli Casserole. This mouthwatering pasta dish combines tender cavatelli, flavorful vegetables, juicy ground chicken, and rich tomato sauce, all baked to perfection under a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese.
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Baked Cavatelli Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Baked Cavatelli Casserole
Ingredients
- 250 g ½ pound dry cavatelli (or gnocchi) pasta
- 350 g 12 oz ground chicken
- 1 cup oyster mushrooms chopped
- 1 medium zucchini cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper cut into cubes
- 1 red onion cut into cubes
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can 400ml/14 oz italian tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- salt and pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- ½ cup pasta water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
- Boil your pasta half the time that is mentioned in the instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.250 g ½ pound dry cavatelli (or gnocchi) pasta
- In a large pan, heat up 2-3 tablespoon olive oil. Cook bell peppers, onion and zucchini in the pan for 10 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes more.1 medium zucchini, 1 bell pepper, 1 red onion, 1 cup oyster mushrooms
- Combine vegetables and mushrooms with chicken, oregano, chili, salt and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes. Add tomato paste, sauce and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes and stir in the pasta with remaining ½ cup of pasta water.350 g 12 oz ground chicken, 2 garlic cloves, 3 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 can, 1 teaspoon dry oregano, 1 teaspoon chili flakes, salt and pepper, ½ cup pasta water
- Transfer pasta into the baking pan, top with shredded cheese and bake for 35 minutes.1 cup mozzarella
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 250 g (½ pound) dry cavatelli (or gnocchi) pasta
- 350 g (12 oz) ground chicken
- 1 cup oyster mushrooms, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper, cut into cubes
- 1 red onion, cut into cubes
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (400ml/14 oz) italian tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dry oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- salt and pepper
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- ½ cup pasta water
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
Boil your pasta half the time that is mentioned in the instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
In a large pan, heat up 2-3 tablespoon olive oil. Cook bell peppers, onion and zucchini in the pan for 10 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes more.
Combine vegetables and mushrooms with chicken, oregano, chili, salt and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes. Add tomato paste, sauce and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes and stir in the pasta with remaining ½ cup of pasta water.
Transfer pasta into the baking pan, top with shredded cheese and bake for 35 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
A hearty Baked Cavatelli Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavors and textures. Here are some delightful options to consider:
Fresh Green Salad
A crisp, fresh green salad makes an excellent accompaniment to your Baked Cavatelli Casserole. The lightness of the salad balances the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal. Consider a simple mix of baby spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes, dressed lightly with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. For added texture, toss in some toasted pine nuts or croutons.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side that pairs perfectly with any pasta dish, and Baked Cavatelli Casserole is no exception. The buttery, garlicky goodness of the bread enhances the flavors of the casserole, making each bite even more irresistible. For a twist, try making cheesy garlic bread by adding a layer of mozzarella or parmesan cheese before baking.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add more nutrients and vibrant colors to your meal. Choose a mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they're caramelized and tender. The natural sweetness of the roasted veggies will complement the savory flavors of the casserole.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Creating the perfect Baked Cavatelli Casserole is an art. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time:
Use Quality Ingredients
The key to any great recipe is using high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh vegetables, good-quality ground chicken, and the best mozzarella you can find. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful your casserole will be.
Don't Overcook the Pasta
When boiling your cavatelli or gnocchi, make sure to cook it only halfway as indicated in the recipe. This ensures that the pasta doesn't become mushy when baked. Remember to reserve some pasta water, as it helps to create a creamy sauce that binds everything together.
Season Generously
Don't be shy with the seasoning. Salt and pepper are essential, but don't forget about the oregano and chili flakes. These spices add depth and a hint of heat to the dish. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning if needed.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even pork. Each option will bring a slightly different flavor profile to your casserole. For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based meat substitutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Baked Cavatelli Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through. For added freshness, sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top before reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Follow the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover the dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove the covering and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Can I Freeze Baked Cavatelli Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Cavatelli Casserole! To do so, prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before baking as instructed. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal option.
What If I Don’t Have Cavatelli?
If you can’t find cavatelli, don't worry! You can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even shell pasta. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for doneness before combining with the sauce.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Feel free to customize your Baked Cavatelli Casserole! You can incorporate additional ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure all ingredients are cooked thoroughly.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you enjoyed making and eating Baked Cavatelli Casserole, you'll love experimenting with other casserole recipes. Here are a few of my favorites to get you started:
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