Shelly's Recipe

CAPUTA'S BAKED PASTA

Category: Pasta - Baked

1 (16 oz) pkg rigatoni pasta
Nonstick cooking spray
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 lb salsiccia or sweet Italian sausage, casings removed, if necessary
6 large garlic cloves, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or less for milder heat)
1/3 cup vodka
1 (26 oz) jar favorite pasta sauce
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley leaves, chopped
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 (5 oz) pkg Asiago cheese, shredded (about 1-1/2 cups)

Heat large covered saucepot of salted water to boiling over high heat. Add pasta and cook as label directs. Meanwhile, lightly spray 13 x 9-inch glass or metal baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In 12-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage, garlic and crushed red pepper and cook 5 to 6 minutes or until sausage browns, breaking up sausage with side of spoon. Remove skillet from heat; carefully stir in vodka, then pasta sauce, cream, parsley and salt. Cook over medium heat 5 to 6 minutes or just until sauce begins to simmer.

Drain pasta, then return to same saucepot. Add sauce and toss until well blended. Pour pasta into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake 6 to 7 minutes or just until cheese melts. Serves: 6