Pasta is a staple dish in many households all across the world. First made in 400 BCE by the Etruscan civilization, this version of the dish was originally one that my family found from the Barefoot Neighbor’s cookbook. This is my family’s version, as some parts were changed to make it our own.

The ingredients to make this baked pasta dish are:

• 2 lb. mild Italian sausage (you can also use ground turkey)
• 1 lb. penne pasta
• 1-10.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
• 1-15 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1-6 oz. can tomato paste
• 8 oz. shredded mozzarella
• Onion powder, garlic salt, Italian seasoning to taste

Steps for the pasta dish:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
2. Cook the pasta to al dente. While that’s cooking, brown the sausage in a pan.
3. After the sausage is browned add the tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup and any seasonings you like. Stir together with the pasta.
4. Add half the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle half the mozzarella on, then top with the remaining mixture and cheese.
5. Bake covered for 25 minutes and uncovered for an additional 5. If you prefer the cheese to brown a little, turn the oven to broil for a few minutes before removing.

Now you can enjoy a baked pasta dish for any occasion that calls for delicious food and is great for family gatherings to come.