1-2-3 BAKED PENNE
Making marinara sauce is a bother when you're busy, but there are many good prepared brands in the supermarket. On a busy school night, grab a jar and make this baked pasta, boosting the flavor with some fresh tomatoes and basil.
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 sweet Italian sausages, casings removed
2 hot Italian sausages, casings removed
12 ounces penne
2 cups prepared marinara sauce
2 medium-size ripe tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn coarsely
1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 ounces mozzarella, cut 6 slices, and dice remainder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly oil a 9- x 13- x 2-inch baking dish.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-low heat. Add the sausage, and cook, breaking it up, until it is browned, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl using a slotted spoon.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne and cook until it is al dente (just tender), 13 minutes. Drain well and add to the sausage along with the marinara sauce, tomatoes, basil, oregano, diced mozzarella, and salt and pepper. Toss well. Transfer to prepared baking dish and cover the top with the mozzarella slices.
4. Bake until the cheese is melted and the pasta is heated through, about 20 minutes.
6 portions