Baked Mostaccioli
Introduction
Baked Mostaccioli is a warm and hearty dish that everyone loves! It’s made with pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and lots of cheese. It’s a simple recipe that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Baked Mostaccioli because it’s delicious, filling, and easy to prepare. It combines comforting flavors that please both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pasta and create a meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Baked Mostaccioli
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce mixture, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, then half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
How to Serve Baked Mostaccioli
Serve Baked Mostaccioli warm from the oven. You can add a side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. Enjoy it with your family and friends!
How to Store Baked Mostaccioli
Store any leftover Baked Mostaccioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you are ready to eat again.
Tips to Make Baked Mostaccioli
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente; it will cook more in the oven.
- You can add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil while baking to keep it moist.
Variation (If Any)
You can use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor. Also, try swapping the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy version!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne or ziti.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble it and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is Baked Mostaccioli freezer-friendly? Yes, you can freeze it before baking or after, just make sure to store it in a tight container or cover well with foil.