from the kitchen of Jim Winer

JIM'S PASTA SAUCE DINNER

1 Box pasta (16oz).  I use rigatoni, Penne Or Ziti.
1 - 1 1/2 lbs Italian sausage
1 - 1 1/2 lbs Lean hamburg
1 Large green or red pepper coarsely chopped
1 Large onion coarsely chopped
10 0z Fresh mushrooms sliced
2 tbs Olive oil
3 or 4 lge cloves of garlic chopped. More if you desire.
2 Large cans tomatoes - I use Pastene kitchen ready crushed.
1 16 oz can tomato sauce
Crushed red pepper flakes at your own discretion.
Approx. 3/4 tbs Italian seasoning
Approx. 1 tsp crushed Rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste.

Crumble hamburg and sausage in a large skillet and cook thoroughly, but not browned. Meanwhile add rosemary, salt and pepper. When meat is done, drain and set aside. In a large pot heat the olive oil and saute the peppers, onions, mushrooms and garlic. Add Italian seasoning and pepper flakes and cook until peppers start to turn soft. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce and the meat, stir well, bring to a light boil, reduce the heat and simmer covered for approx. 1 1/2 to 2 hours stirring occasionally. Cook pasta and top with sauce, add your favorite grated cheese, open up a good wine and enjoy. Note: You probably will have sauce left over. It freezes well.