Recipe: Baked Pasta and Sausage (layered pasta with meat sauce using Italian sausage)

Hi Colleen, I don't know the original source of this recipe but maybe it's close to what you're looking for. I checked my (incomplete) set of My Great Recipes cards but didn't find it in there. Hopefully someone will have the exact recipe to share. Happy Cooking! Betsy

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BAKED PASTA AND SAUSAGE

1 (28 oz.) can whole tomatoes, undrained
1 (16 oz.) can whole tomatoes, undrained
3 tbsp. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 lb. Italian hot sausage, casings removed
8 oz. Mozzarella or Provolone, shredded
1 lb. pasta, such as small shells, ziti, or bow ties

Put tomatoes and their liquid in food processor or blender and process briefly to chop; set aside.

In a large, heavy skillet, heat oil. Add onion and garlic. Saute until softened.

Meanwhile, in another skillet, brown sausage, crumbling with a spoon. When sausage is browned, drain thoroughly and blot with paper towels to remove all grease.

Add processed tomatoes and their liquid to the sauteed onions. Add sausage. Bring to a boil, lower heat and simmer about 30 minutes. The sauce will reduce a bit.

While sauce is cooking, boil water for pasta. Cook until just done. Do not over cook. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spoon a little sauce on the bottom. Layer pasta, sauce, then cheese; repeat.

Bake at 350 degrees F until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes.

Can be assembled ahead, then refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Serves 8 generously
Source: Old recipe files, original source not listed