Penne Pasta and Smoked Sausage

2 cups uncooked penne pasta (I like the mini ones)

1 1/2 cups french fried onions, divided
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup (4oz) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 can condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 lb. smoked sausage or fully cooked kielbasa, cut into 1/4 inch slices
1 cup frozen peas (I leave these out...no one likes peas in this house!)

Cook pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, brown sausage over medium heat for 5 minutes; drain.

In a large bowl, combine milk and soup. Stir in 1/2 cup french fried onions, 1/2 cup cheese, peas (if you like that kind of thing), and sausage.

Drain pasta and add to sausage mixture. Transfer to a 9 X 13 inch baking dish. Cover and bake at 375* for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.

Remove and sprinkle with remaining french fried onions and cheese. Bake uncovered and additional 3 to 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

"Pasta and sausage, oh darn," says Doug. He loves all pasta and all sausage!