1 1/2 lbs. sweet Italian sausage
1 (16 oz.) can tomatoes, drained
4 c. canned beans
1/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. molasses
2 apples, peeled and chopped
1 lg. onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp. powdered garlic)
2 tbsp. cider vinegar
2 tbsp. prepared mustard
Black pepper to taste

Crumble sausage and fry over low heat in its own fat; cook through. Drain and add to casserole. Drain tomatoes (discard liquid); crush tomatoes and add to casserole along with beans, sugar, molasses, apples, onion, garlic, vinegar, mustard, and pepper. Stir well.

Bake covered in 325 degree oven 1 hour. Uncover and bake another 30 minutes. Makes 8-10 servings.

Flavor enhanced if cooked day before 1 hour - then just heat for 1/2 hour before serving.