Baked Mostaccioli
Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender pasta mixed with a flavorful meat sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This Italian-American classic is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb mostaccioli pasta uncooked
- 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 lb ground meat beef or Italian sausage, depending on preference
- 24 oz marinara sauce choose your favorite brand
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated (divided)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Boil salted water in a large pot, add mostaccioli, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned, then drain excess grease.
- Add marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Mix cooked pasta with the sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.
- Transfer pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
Serving: 250gCalories: 420kcal
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