ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND PEPPER BAKE

Italian Sausage and Pepper Bake

1 pound Italian sausage
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 sweet red pepper, sliced
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon basil
Salt and pepper
1 (20 ounce) package frozen stuffed shells or manicotti
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cook Italian sausage; drain. Slice into 1/2-inch pieces; set aside.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil. Add onion and peppers; cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, seasonings and cooked sausage. Simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Coat shallow 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread half of sauce in bottom of dish. Arrange pasta in dish; cover with remaining sauce. Cover with foil; bake at 400 degrees F for 40 minutes. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Yields 6 servings.