CHEESY CAVATINI - CASSIES WAY

Cheesy Cavatini - Cassies Way image

Provided by Cassie *

Time 1h40m

Number Of Ingredients 19

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1 lb ground beef
2 links sweet or hot italian sausage, removed from casing
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
4 clove garlic, minced
7 oz package, sliced pepperoni - halved ( all but about 15 slices ) )
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp italian seasoning or 1 tsp basil, 1/2 tsp oregano
2 - 24 oz spaghetti sauce
1 - 6 oz tomato paste
3/4 c water (optional)
1 Tbsp brown sugar
5 - 6 c pastas ( i used two cups of each - rigatoni, penne, cavatappi ) prepared as to manufacturers instructions ( not quite al dente )
30 oz ricotta cheese
2 c shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 c grated parmesan cheese
1 - 8 oz package, mozzarella cheese slices
PREP TIME INCLUDES THE TIME IT TAKES TO SIMMER SAUCE

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degree F. Spray a 9 x 13 or larger deep dish casserole pan with non stick cooking spray. Set aside. Prepare pasta, not quite al dente.
2. In a large skillet, add 2 - 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Over medium heat, combine ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, onion, green pepper, garlic and seasonings until vegetables are tender and beef, sausage are cooked through. Drain; return to pan.
3. Now, stir in the tomato paste.
4. Add the sauce and brown sugar. Cover and simmer for 30 - 40 minutes. Stirring occasionally(If getting too thick; stir in the 1/2 - 3/4 cup water to thin out, you don't want the sauce too thin, but not too thick either.)
5. In a large bowl; mix together cooked / drained pasta, ricotta, 2 cups mozzarella, and Parmesan.
6. In prepared baking dish or pan; coat bottom with about 1 cup sauce. Now, add about 3 cups pasta/cheese mixture. Spread evenly.
7. Now, add 2 - 2 1/2 cups meat sauce; spread evenly.
8. Repeat layers, ending with sauce.
9. Place the mozzarella slices evenly on top of the sauce. I then placed the saved pepperoni on top of the cheese. Optional Bake the Cavatini 30 - 45 minutes, or until browning and bubbly.
10. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
11. I served this with a tossed salad, and crusty Italian bread. Tastes like lasagna, but without the fuss...delish!!!