Italian Pasta Casserole

By ccavaletti

Ingredients

• 1 (12-oz.) package WACKY MAC Veggie Spirals
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium-size green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (8-oz.) package sliced mushrooms
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1 (28-oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 (26-oz.) jar tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 (8-oz.) package shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation

Step 1

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.

2. Cook beef, next 4 ingredients, and 1/2 tsp. salt in a Dutch-oven over medium-high heat, stirring often, 10 minutes or until meat is browned and vegetables are tender.

3. Stir in tomatoes, next 5 ingredients, and remaining 1 tsp. salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes.

4. Combine tomato mixture and pasta; spoon into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with cheese.

5. Bake, uncovered, at 400º for 30 minutes or until bubbly and thoroughly heated.

Southern Living
SEPTEMBER 2006