This family favorite pasta dish adds a unique creamy meat sauce to make penne or ziti pasta that will please kids and adults alike. The tomato and beef sauce can be modified with ground italian sausage. Or use ground turkey or chicken chunks if you don't eat red meat. If you prefer a vegetarian sauce, go ahead and omit the meat. Add extra cheese for the protein if you'd like. A vegetarian meat replacement (e. G. , tvp, gimme lean) is another option. For a vegetarian version, try this recipe for penne pasta bake with tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. Some shredded carrot, celery, and onion add flavor and nutrients to the sauce. There is a small amount of wine in the dish, but feel free to replace it with some water or broth if you don't care to cook with alcohol. Top the pasta casserole with shredded parmesan cheese just before serving and eat away. Add a french bread baguette, crusty rolls, or garlic bread to help make this a satisfying meal, or add a caesar salad or lightly dressed spring greens.
