Eckrich Sausage And Mostaccioli
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish combining savory Eckrich sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich spaghetti sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the sausage into 3/4-inch pieces.
- In a medium saucepan (3-quart), sauté the sausage, onion, and green pepper for about 3 minutes or until the sausage is lightly browned.
- Drain the sausage and vegetables well.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over hot cooked mostaccioli or other tubular pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding mushrooms or spinach to the sautéed vegetables. If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute Eckrich sausage with a spicy Italian variety. You can also use gluten-free pasta if necessary. For a lighter version, swap the spaghetti sauce with a homemade tomato sauce or a dairy-free option to meet different dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can enhance the flavor. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. For a comforting dessert, consider serving alongside Becky'S Mock Key Lime Pie for a delightful finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eckrich Sausage And Mostaccioli contains roughly 318 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 706mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Eckrich sausage adds great flavor, you can substitute it with any cooked sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or even a vegetarian sausage. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding it to the dish. Adjust cooking times if needed to ensure the sausage is warmed through.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the Eckrich sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. You can add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and texture. Additionally, use a marinara sauce or a homemade vegetable sauce to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What can I serve this with?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic knots, or steamed vegetables. For a comforting dessert, try serving it with Judy'S Butterscotch Cheese Cake Bars to round out your meal with something sweet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).