VOTE APRIL 1ST 2025

Sean's Baked Macaroni

Ingredients

  • 2 tspOlive Oil
  • 2.5 lb.Italian Sausage
  • 1Onion
    finely chopped
  • 2 tspGarlic
    minced
  • 48 oz.Marinara Sauce of Choice
  • 14.5 oz.Can of Diced Tomatoes
  • 11 oz.V8 Juice
  • 8 oz.Can of Tomato Sauce
  • 14.5 oz.Can of Diced Carrots
    drained
  • 8 oz.Mushrooms
    sliced
  • 1/2 cupWine of Choice
    red adds richness, while white adds a fruity component
  • 8 oz.Parmesan Cheese
    shredded, plus more for serving
  • 1 tsp.Italian Seasoning
  • 3 tbspButter
  • Chef's ChoiceSalt and Pepper
    to taste
  • 16 oz.Box of Large Elbow Macaroni
    cooked al dente
  • 2 CupsMozzarella Cheese
    shredded
  • 2 tbspParsley
    chopped

Preparation

  1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over med-high heat. Add sausage and onion. Season meat with salt and pepper to taste. Fully cook sausage. Drain fat.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, V8 Juice, tomato sauce, diced carrots, mushrooms, wine, butter and Italian seasoning to the pan and bring the sauce to a simmer.
  3. Turn the burner to low and let it simmer / cook for 3+ hours, with lid on, stirring every so often. Taste along the way and adjust seasoning as needed. Add the Parmesan cheese at the very end, stirring until it is fully incorporated and melted.
  4. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix thoroughly the cooked macaroni with the sauce. Pour pasta mixture into a deep 9x13 pan; top with shredded mozzarella.
  5. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until pasta is bubbly and cheese is melted and browned. Let cool for 15 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle with parsley, and then serve with additional Parmesan cheese.
  7. ENJOY!

Points to Consider

  • Feel free to add any additional spices or ingredients of preference.
  • You can use whatever meats you prefer.
  • The recipe is completely customizable.
  • Spray the foil with cooking spray so it does not stick to the cheese.
  • This freezes well in individual containers.
  • This recipe is from charming Sean Cavanaugh.
Servings: 8
Sean's Baked MacaroniSean's Baked MacaroniSean's Baked MacaroniSean's Baked Macaroni