Sicilian Rice Casserole

* 2 cups uncooked long grain rice
* 2 garlic and cheese flavored sausage links, casing removed
* 1 lb) 93% lean ground turkey
* 1 onion, chopped
* 5 oz frozen peas
* 16 oz tomato sauce (I used Classico Roasted Garlic)
* 2 eggs
* 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
* 4 tbsp seasoned breadcrumbs, divided
* 2 cup shredded part skim mozzarella


Cook rice in water according to package directions. Set aside to cool.

Meanwhile, sauté sausage meat; cook until brown. Add turkey and onions and cook until browned. Add peas and 8 oz tomato sauce and simmer on low, covered, about 20 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400°. In a large bowl combine rice, parmesan, eggs, and 4 oz tomato sauce and mix well. Rice will be a bit sticky.

Spray a 9 x 13 casserole dish with cooking spray, making sure to spray sides too. Add 2 tbsp breadcrumbs to the dish and roll around to coat the bottom and sides.

Take half of the rice mixture (a little more if needed) and cover the bottom of the dish and up the sides; press to form the bottom layer.

Layer the meat mixture on top.

Sprinkle mozzarella on top. Top with remaining rice and press until even. Top with remaining 4 oz of sauce, remaining 2 tbsp breadcrumbs, and remaining mozzarella.

Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes. Cut into 16 pieces.