By Elaura Lacey, 2nd Year History
The Croft Magazine // Starting or returning to Bristol uni is a time associated with fun, excitement and lots of nights out, but it can also be tough.
Feeling homesick is a completely normal and common thing to feel whilst settling in, and the best way to combat those down days is by making some great comfort food.
Everyone has different meals they associate with home cooking, so I’ve tried to make a recipe that appeals to as many people as possible. Pasta bake is something I immediately think of when remembering home; it’s easy to make, has that soft and crunchy combination and has plenty of leftovers. Bon appetite!
What you will need:
2 Pork/ Vegetarian sausages
TIP If you buy a pack of 6 sausages, get some little freezer bags at the supermarket so you can divide your sausages into 2. This way you can defrost the right amount of sausages for your meals without cooking them all at once!
1 Red Pepper
Handful of baby button mushrooms (you can also use broccoli, or an alternative veg)
1 Jar of Tomato sauce
Cheese (optional for topping)
Penne Pasta
Method:
1. Start by pre-heating your oven to 180 degrees
2. Place your sausages into a heated frying pan and cook them until they are piping hot in the centre. Once they are cooked, leave them on a low heat whilst completing step 3.
3. Fill a baking dish (preferably a Pyrex dish or something similar) with dry penne pasta until it reaches the top but leave room for your toppings- this is the amount you should boil for your pasta bake.
4. As you are boiling your pasta, start to chop up your red pepper and mushrooms.
5. Now is the time to place your cooked sausages on a chopping board and cut them into smaller pieces.
6. Once your pasta has softened, drain it and place it in the baking dish and add your prepared vegetables and sausage pieces.
7. Add the whole jar of pasta sauce and stir in until it’s coated and mixed in with the pasta.
8. If you wish, add some grated cheese on top of the pasta to get that crispy, cheesy taste.
9. Place the tray in the centre of the oven for 30-40 mins until it is crispy on the top. Check your pasta bake regularly until it’s the right amount of crispiness for you.
10. When it’s done, let it stand for a few minutes and then serve. If you want, you can add extra cheese!
Featured: Epigram / Elaura Lacey
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