Description

Chicken, Pepper, and Mozzarella Cavatappi Bake is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender chicken, bell peppers, gooey mozzarella cheese, and curly cavatappi pasta in a rich, creamy tomato-herb sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this flavorful bake is easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. With customizable ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Bake:

1 pound cavatappi pasta

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 bell peppers, sliced

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 cup tomato sauce

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Parmesan cheese, grated, for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sliced bell peppers, sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Sauce: Add diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Assemble the Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a delicious meatless meal.

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added heat.

Cheese Variations: Use provolone, gouda, or Italian cheese blends for different flavor profiles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Calories: Approx. 400-500 kcal