Neopolitan Casserole

This is one of Mom's classics.  It's a hearty pasta casserole that kids love.

1/4 cup salad oil
6 sweet Italian sausages (about 1 1/4 pound)
1 pound ground chuck
1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
2 cans (1 lb.) stewed tomatoes
1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce with onion
1 Tbls. minced garlic
2 Tbls. Italian seasoning
2 cups macaroni
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 lb. sliced Muenster cheese (optional)

Brown sausage with oil in large electric skillet at 375 degrees.  Add macaroni and ground chuck.  Saute-stir for 5 minutes or until beef loses pink color.  Drain off excess fat.  Stir in tomato paste, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, seasonings, and 2 1/2 cups water.  Bring to boiling, stirring.  Reduce heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes.  Arrange cheese slices over top, heat just until cheese melts slightly.   Makes 6 servings.

 Alternative serving method:  After simmering for 45 minutes, transfer everything into a large casserole dish.  Top with cheese and heat in the oven until the cheese melts.

If you don't have an electric skillet, use a large pan with a lid and simmer the casserole on a stove top.