Ingredients

13 1/2 ounces whole wheat macaroni
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 medium onion , chopped
2 green bell peppers , diced
2 red bell peppers , diced
1 tablespoon dried chopped basil
4 cups red spaghetti sauce
1 lb Italian sausage , cooked and sliced thin
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
1 cup parmesan cheese , grated , divided
Baked Elbow Macaroni with Italian Sausage and Peppers is a classic Italian-American meal that is great for a cozy night in. This meal is a dish of cooked elbow macaroni in a zesty red sauce made with spicy Italian sausage and colorful sweet bell peppers. The cheese-studded baked macaroni dish can be served as a main course or a side dish and it is perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish is a great idea to warm your heart and soul after a long day.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2.Boil the macaroni as directed on the package until al dente. Drain well, and set aside.
3.Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, green and red peppers, and cook until the vegetables become tender, which should take 15 minutes.
4.Add the dried chopped basil and red spaghetti sauce. Mix well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5.Add the Italian sausage and mix with the sauce.
6.Add half of the cooked macaroni and stir. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
7.Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half cup grated parmesan cheese on the top.
8.Add the rest of the macaroni and another cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and half cup grated parmesan cheese on top.
9.Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes for the cheese to brown.

PROS

This dish is a classic comfort food that is filling and full of flavor.

The whole wheat macaroni and red spaghetti sauce provide health benefits ensuring that you will be loving every bite.

This meal is easy to prepare and can be made ahead and reheated.

CONS

This meal is a heavy one and may not be the best option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a light diet.

The cheese and sausage in this dish make it higher in calories and fat.

This meal is not recommended for those adhering to a strict dietary recommended value of sugar or salt.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Whole wheat pasta is rich in fiber which aids in digestion and provides a slower release of energy. The red spaghetti sauce is a good source of certain vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and C, potassium, and folate which help boost immunity and eye health.

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