Jen's Cheesy Mexican Pasta

"Another one I made up. I've been making this for a few years, and it's a quick meal to throw together. I put in the tomatoes at the last minute so they keep their consistancy."

INGREDIENTS:

1 lb box of pasta noodles (if you use wheat pasta that isn't quite a pound...as I do, it's not a big deal) cooked and drained according to package

1 pound package of pre-cooked sausage or kilbasa cut into small chunks (this is also where you can cut some fat by using Jenny-O turkey sausage or Ekrich light)

2/3 Jar of Cheese Whiz (or use a 1 whole jar of Con Queso dip like Tosito's Brand for less fat)

1 1/2 cups diced tomatoes

1 small or 1/2 large onion, diced

1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese (I like to use 2% milk cheese to cut down on fat)

1/2 cup taco sauce

1/4 cup miracle whip (this is optional. I wouldn't substitute mayo...I just add this for flavor)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Optional Add-in Ideas (depending on what you like)

-Green and or Red Pepper, diced

-Cooked Corn

- sliced Black Olives

- Black Beans (maybe only 1/2 can)

DIRECTIONS:

While you are preparing pasta, sautee sausage or kilbasa in large frying pan with onions and any of the veggie add-ins you chose, adding garlic and pepper, until meat is browned. In pot used for boiling noodles combine noodles, meat mixture, and remaining ingredients, and cook over med.-low heat until cheese is melted.

Serves 6