Main Dishes:

Mostaccioli and Meat Sauce

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Makes 2 good portion servings. This recipe is adapted for the microwave, although heating the sausage/onion/garlic mixture can be done on the stovetop.

Ingredients

1 1/3 cups mostaccioli macaroni
1/3 pound bulk hot Italian sausage
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup sliced fresh mushrooms or 2 tablespoons sliced canned mushrooms, drained
1 (8 ounce) can whole tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons chopped olives
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare macaroni according to package directions and set aside. Combine sausage, onion and garlic in a microwavable bowl. Cover and microwave 3 1/2-6 minutes or until onion is tender, stirring once to break apart. Drain. Stir in mushrooms, tomatoes, tomato paste, olives, sugar and basil. Cover and microwave for 2-4 minutes or until mixture is heated and flavors blend, stirring once.

Place macaroni on a serving plate and top with sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella, then Parmesan cheese. Microwave for 4-7 minutes or until cheese melts and sauce is hot.

Beverly Westendorf