Now is the time of year for comfort. Chilly and grey outside, short days waiting for spring. I love to cozy up on the couch to read good books and stream TV series. Generally nesting at home. So a hearty, warming, comforting dish is perfect. This recipe is not difficult, but it does take a little time and patience. It is the kind of meal I find almost meditative to create. … [Read more...] about Baked Polenta with Meat Sauce
Italian sausage
Baked Orecchiette with Italian Sausage and Taleggio Sauce
We all need a little comfort sometimes, and I think a rich, meaty, cheesy baked pasta casserole always fits the bill. It’s the meal I often turn to, whether it’s an all-day cooking project or a simple thrown together quickie. Pull one of these hot, melty creations out of the oven on a chilly winter night and gather round the table. Everyone will be ahppy. This is the perfect … [Read more...] about Baked Orecchiette with Italian Sausage and Taleggio Sauce
Fennel and Italian Sausage Pappardelle
I love recipes like this. Quick and simple, but full of flavor. There’s a little twist here - the ingredients are few and straightforward, but a little out of the ordinary. Pork and fennel are a classic combination, frequently in slow-cooked roasts and braises, and fennel seed is a key ingredient in Italian sausage, so using the fresh fennel just amps up the flavor. But this … [Read more...] about Fennel and Italian Sausage Pappardelle
Upside Down Pizza Pie Bake
An easy weeknight treat is a great recipe to have on hand. I love this version of a a classic pizza casserole, updated my way with no jarred sauces or chemical laden boxed mixes. This is a real family pleaser, better than greasy delivery and easier than making or rolling out dough. A mix of beef and Italian sausage with fun bites of pepperoni up the pizza factor. If your … [Read more...] about Upside Down Pizza Pie Bake
Creamy Italian Sausage and Pumpkin Manicotti
As I remember it, trick or treating is hard work. Lots of walking, in what is invariably an uncomfortable costume, that heavy bag of candy and keeping your best manners on under all that stress. But the promise of a seemingly endless supply of fun-size candy bars made it all worthwhile. I even liked the stripey, crunchy peanut butter Mary Janes and the peanut … [Read more...] about Creamy Italian Sausage and Pumpkin Manicotti