CS Skillet Lasagna with Italian Sausage

Pasta - Cook pasta according to package directions. If making ahead, toss pasta with some olive or cooking oil after it has cooled to help prevent sticking. (Can be done up to 3 days ahead)

Garlic / Shallots - Prep as directed. Store separately. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)

Heat a Dutch oven or very large skillet with cooking oil over medium heat. Add sausage to heated oil and cook, breaking sausage apart, until browned and cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain off any excess oil.

When sausage is cooked, add garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste, stirring to combine.

Add tomato puree and stir well to combine. Reduce heat to low-medium to prevent the sauce from boiling. Cook sauce, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Stir pasta into sauce until everything is well combined. Taste and season with some salt and pepper if needed.

You can stir ricotta into sauce or just add small spoonfuls of ricotta to the top of the pasta. (It’s good either way.)

Top pasta with grated parmesan (if using) and serve with salad on the side. Enjoy!