Italian Sausage Casserole

Feel like going Italian tonight? This rich but simple dish will satisfy especially when you add a glass of vino. Try a Sangiovese wine

Serves 8
Prep time 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 pound Rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cups tomato pasta sauce
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
  • 2 cups grated Mozzarella
  • red and green pepper strips to garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    Remove the casing from sausage. Heat oil in a large pan, add sausage and brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
    Meanwhile cook pasta, al dente.
    Combine sausage, pasta, sauce, pesto, oregano, and 1 cup cheese. Mix well. Place into a 9x13 oven proof casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining cheese. Bake until cheese melts, about 20-30 minutes.

    Terri’s Cooking Wiser Tips:

  • For added flavor and great texture use fresh mozzarella
  • Use mild and/or hot Italian sausage depending on your taste
  • Garnish with 1 tespoon fresh basil chopped
  • To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions before adding to the casserole

  • Serve this Italian dish with a good Chianti Classico

  • Make a wonderful vegetarian dish by omitting the sausage and adding ½ cup each diced zucchini, yellow squash and one medium onion, peeled and sliced
  • Eliminate perservatives and create more flavor by making your own sauce. You can make additional sauce; can or freeze for later

    Make it your own
    Create your own with added ingredients, try meatballs and/or sundried tomatoes for added richness or add ground beef in place of or with the Italian sausage
    Or stuff red and green peppers with pasta, top with cheese and bake