Fabulous Friday... Baked Penne with Turkey Sausage

Baked Penne with Turkey Sausage

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS:

1-1/2 cups whole wheat ziti, rotella or other short pasta

1 teaspoon + 2 Tablespoons olive oil

1 pound lean Italian-style turkey sausage, [mild or hot depending upon preference] cut into 4" pieces

1 large red bell pepper, chopped

1 small yellow onion, chopped

6 large button mushrooms, coarsely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced fine

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 can [15-oz] crushed tomatoes

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 large red ripe tomato, chopped

3/4 cup [3-oz] shredded mozzarella cheese

 

 

PREPARATION:

Preheat the oven to 375 F. Spray a shallow 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and return to the pot. Add 1 teaspoon of the oil and toss to coat.

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and no longer pink inside - 80 to 10 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a clean plate and allow to cool while preparing the rest of the sauce.

Into the same skillet, add the bell pepper, onion, mushroom, garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook wuntil the onion is almost soft, 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper.

Cut the sausage into 1/4" slices and place in the prepared baking dish along with the sauce and pasta. Toss to combine. Top with fresh tomato, only around the edges and sprinkle with cheese. Bake until heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. 20-25 minutes.

 
NUTRITIONAL INFO:
Per Serving:
Calories: 461
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 22g
Protein: 31g
Sodium: 1,256mg   [youch! This will be okay if you limit your sodium intake the rest of the day!]