Penne with Meat Sauce

This economical and hearty comfort food is quick to prepare, making it an excellent weeknight option. Serve alongside a green salad for a satisfying meal both adults and kids will love equally. This recipe makes 6 servings.

PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes

Ingredients
8 ounces dried penne pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup chopped sweet, white or yellow onion
1 14 ounce can whole Italian-style tomatoes, undrained
1/2 6 ounce can Italian-style tomato paste
1/4 cup dry red wine or tomato juice
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well. Return pasta to hot pan; cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, in a very large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until meat is brown. Drain off fat. In a blender or food processor, combine undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, wine, sugar, dried oregano, and pepper. Cover and blend or process until smooth.

Stir tomato mixture into meat mixture in skillet. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cooked pasta and olives. Cover and heat through.

Sprinkle individual servings with mozzarella cheese. Serve right away.