Baked Mostaccioli is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave Italian-inspired comfort food. This baked pasta dish combines tender noodles, savory marinara sauce, and gooey layers of cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a cheesy pasta bake!
- Customizable: Add vegetables, meats, or extra spices to suit your taste.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for a creamier texture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the mostaccioli and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Drain and toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce. If using ricotta or cottage cheese, fold it in for added creaminess.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the remaining cheeses.
4. Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- Use quality marinara: The sauce is the heart of the dish, so choose a good one.
- Undercook the pasta slightly: It will finish cooking in the oven.
- Add veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread.
- Serve with a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze assembled but unbaked mostaccioli for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
Baked Mostaccioli is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and always a hit. With its layers of tender pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Enjoy every bite! 🍝 🧀