Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that combines rich marinara sauce, savory ground meat, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Mostaccioli pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Mostaccioli pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, mix the cooked Mostaccioli pasta with the meat sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese, tossing until evenly coated.
7. Prepare to Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Add the Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6 people. The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes, bringing the total time to about 45 minutes.

Variations & Tips

• Lighten It Up: Substitute ground turkey and use part-skim mozzarella and Parmesan for a lighter version.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. It’s also freezer-friendly for an easy meal later.
• Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave, making for a delicious encore meal.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, penne or rigatoni are great alternatives.
2. What can I serve with Baked Mostaccioli?
   A side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this dish.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Substitute the meat with a mix of vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
5. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
6. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
   Absolutely! Homemade sauce adds a personal touch.
7. How long does it take to reheat?
   In the oven, it takes about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Microwave times may vary.
8. Can I add spices for more flavor?
   Feel free to add red pepper flakes, oregano, or thyme to enhance the flavor.
9. Is there a gluten-free option?
   Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
10. What’s the calorie count per serving?
    Approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Baked Mostaccioli is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines pasta, savory meat, and a rich tomato sauce topped with gooey cheese. Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a warm, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table!

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