Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. This Italian-American classic features tender mostaccioli pasta tossed in a hearty tomato sauce with layers of melted cheese, making every bite a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The dish is baked to perfection, with the top layer of cheese bubbling and golden brown, while the pasta absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, Baked Mostaccioli is a go-to dish when you want something warm, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb mostaccioli pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage or ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Combine the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Mostaccioli: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting, cheesy delight that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day!
