Henry and Sadie's Spaghetti Bake

When two of my friends were expecting (Jocelyne and Krissy - xo), I whipped up a couple trays of this recipe. When their babies arrived, I wrapped the frozen entrees in a receiving blanket or crib sheet, tied a bow around it and, voila! Instant baby gift while taking care of Mom and family at the same time.


So if it weren't for the arrival of Henry and Sadie, who have grown not only in size but in our hearts, I would not be sharing this favourite with all of you now! Hmmm..perhaps I'll be wrapping a ribbon around one of these casseroles 25+ years from now for Henry and Sadie's baby?? They DO look pretty cute together, don't you think? ;-)



Henry and Sadie's Spaghetti Bake

2 lbs. mild Italian sausage, cooked then sliced into chunks
2 onions; chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced (I use those frozen garlic cubes)
1 tbsp dried basil
4 cups sliced mushrooms
2 - 28oz. cans diced tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
1 tsp pepper
6 cups chopped fresh spinach
12 oz. whole wheat spaghetti noodles

TOPPING:
2 tbsp butter
1/3 cups all purpose flour
3 cups milk
3/4 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

In large pot, add onion, garlic and basil; fry, stirring for 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until liquid is evaporated. About five minutes. Stir in cooked sausage.

Add tomatoes, tomato paste and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until most of the liquid is evaporated - about 15 minutes. Add spinach.

Topping: Meanwhile, in saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook, whisking for 1 minute. Whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 12-15 minutes). Add mozzarella, salt and pepper.

Meanwhile, in large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti until tender but firm. Drain and add to meat sauce. Toss to coat. Spread in 9x12 casserole dish). Pour topping over spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan.

Bake in 375 oven until bubbly and golden - about 50 minutes (or freeze before baking).