Savory Sausage Penne Supper

I merged two recipes into one to create this wonderful pasta dish.  The best part was that this was an honest to goodness 30 minute dinner.  I really was able to prepared the whole meal in 30 minutes without pre-prepared ingredients.  It's really perfect for a busy weeknight!

SAVORY SAUSAGE PENNE

1 pkg. (16-oz.) penne pasta
1 can (15-oz.) tomato sauce
1 jar (7-oz.) roasted sweet red peppers, drained
1 medium onion, cut into wedges
2 T olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, peeled
2 t balsamic vinegar
1 t sugar
1 t Italian seasoning
½ t fennel seed
¼ t garlic salt
1 pkg. (14-oz.) turkey sausage, coin-sliced
½ c shredded Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, place the tomato sauce, red peppers, onion, 1 T oil, garlic, vinegar, sugar, Italian seasoning, fennel seed and garlic salt in a food processor; cover and process until blended. Set aside.

In a large skillet, cook sausage in 1 T oil over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Add tomato mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Drain pasta; toss with sauce. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve topped with extra cheese, if desired.