Baked Mostaccioli holds a cherished spot in the culinary world, nestled comfortably between the beloved lasagna and the ever-popular baked ziti. With its roots deeply embedded in Italian cuisine, this dish brings forth the simple pleasures of pasta: ridged tubes perfectly designed to trap every bit of saucy, cheesy delight. It’s my go-to for gatherings, lazy dinners, or anytime I crave something satisfying without too much fuss. The beauty of Baked Mostaccioli lies not only in its straightforward preparation but also in the fact that it tastes even better the next day, making it a favorite among meal-prep enthusiasts and leftover lovers alike.
Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special occasion, Baked Mostaccioli serves up comfort in every bite. Its layers of rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and tender pasta create a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming. For a well-rounded meal, pair it with a fresh green salad, like a Caesar or a simple arugula with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance the richness. And, of course, no pasta night is complete without a side of aromatic garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce and adding a final touch of indulgence to this comforting feast.
Ingredients:
Mostaccioli Pasta: 1 pound, uncooked
Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Ground Meat: 1 pound (beef or Italian sausage, depending on preference)
Marinara Sauce: 24 ounces (choose your favorite brand)
Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated (divided)
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Fresh Basil: For garnish (optional)
Directions:
Preheat and Prepare: Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that your Baked Mostaccioli comes out perfectly cooked with a beautifully browned top. While the oven is heating, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the pasta from sticking to the dish and ensure an easy cleanup.
Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the Mostaccioli and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It’s important to not overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook and absorb flavors in the oven.
Sauté Aromatics and Meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and aromatic. This step is crucial for developing a deep, flavorful base for your sauce. Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the ground meat to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir well to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Feel free to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked and drained, return it to the pot. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta and add half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and cheese. The cheese will melt and mix into the pasta, creating a rich, creamy mixture.
Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, then season with Italian seasoning. The extra cheese on top will create a deliciously golden and bubbly crust as it bakes.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the Baked Mostaccioli is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be a tantalizing hint of the comforting meal to come.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the pasta to set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations & Tips:
Protein Variants: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey. For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding pepperoni slices or crumbled bacon to the meat mixture.
Veggie Additions: Incorporating vegetables into your Baked Mostaccioli is a great way to boost its nutritional value. Consider stirring in spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the meat sauce. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add texture and color to the dish.
Make Ahead: Baked Mostaccioli is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook it, simply bake it for a bit longer than the usual time to ensure it’s heated through.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and cook from frozen, adding extra time as needed. This is a fantastic option for those busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
Summary:
Baked Mostaccioli is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting embrace in a casserole dish. Its combination of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please. Its versatility allows for numerous variations, making it easy to tailor to different tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this beloved classic, and let it bring comfort and joy to your table.