Christmas Pasta

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The other night I awoke and had an overwhelming taste for sausage and peppers. Odd  I know, but what can I say? It happens :)

Since I was headed to the grocery store the next day anyway, I purchased some really great looking red and green bell peppers (hence the name Christmas Pasta) and, following inspiration, decided to turn my sausage and pepper dish into a pasta dish that can/would feed a crowd (not that we had a crowd coming over),or that would serve us as a meal for more than one night during the busy holiday season.

Look how festive:


This is the "recipe" I came up with and it was a complete hit. Of course you can modify the ingredient amounts depending on the number of people you're serving, but I suggest you make a big batch because you're going to love it!!!


 CHRISTMAS PASTA

2 pounds sweet Italian Sausage, cut into bite sized pieces
3 red bell peppers and 3 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into 1" chunks
3 sweet onions, cut into 1" chunks
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (more for drizzling)
1 1/2 pounds spaghetti, cooked just shy of package directions.
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

-In a large skillet over medium high heat, brown the sausage in 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
-Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon to a separate dish. 
-In the same skillet, over medium heat, saute the onions, bell peppers and garlic with the salt and pepper until slightly soft but not mushy (approximately 10 minutes), stirring occasionally, and adding more olive oil if needed.
-Add the sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine, turning off the burner.
-Add the cooked spaghetti and, using tongs, mix the pasta and other ingredients well.
-Turn the pasta out into a large, well oiled casserole dish and cover with aluminum foil.
-Refrigerate until your ready to bake, or bake immediately.
*If refrigerated, leave casserole sit on the counter before baking for 1/2 hour and then bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.
*If baking immediately, bake in a 350 degree preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes.
-Serve with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkling of Parmesan cheese if desired.







I hope you've enjoyed this simple casserole that is sure to please a crowd or any hungry family that loves a few good leftover meals...like us :)

Until we eat again,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
Renee

Christmas Pasta