What is the Best Way to Make Baked Mostaccioli Recipe?
The best way to make baked mostaccioli is by layering cooked mostaccioli noodles with a rich meat sauce, a creamy ricotta mixture, and plenty of cheese. Bake it covered with aluminum foil to trap moisture, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top.
Are you ready to make the perfect baked mostaccioli recipe that will have your whole family asking for seconds? This hearty, cheesy dish is an absolute must for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Loaded with flavor, this baked mostaccioli dish combines the best of Italian flavors, from a rich meat sauce to a creamy ricotta mixture. Whether it’s your first time making this or the second time, I’ll guide you through the process step by step.
Why You Need to Make This Baked Mostaccioli Recipe
There’s something magical about baked mostaccioli noodles. The tender pasta, coated in a luscious sauce and blanketed with cheese, makes this dish the ultimate comfort food. It’s like a cross between lasagna and baked ziti, but even easier to make. With a savory homemade marinara sauce and gooey cheese, this is a pasta recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need simple pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients for this baked mostaccioli recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz mostaccioli noodles
- 2 cups pasta sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup homemade marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- Veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers
- Basil or other fresh herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Baked Mostaccioli
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is fully browned, toss in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in your favorite pasta sauce or spaghetti sauce (about 2 cups) and your homemade marinara sauce. Let this sauce mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While your sauce simmers, bring another large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your mostaccioli noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook them al dente since the pasta will continue to cook when baked. Drain the pasta and set it aside, tossing it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with a little salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for an extra flavor kick.
Step 4: Assemble the Baked Mostaccioli
Now comes the fun part—layering your baked mostaccioli! Start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce mixture in the bottom of a large baking dish. Add half of the pasta on top of the sauce. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the pasta, and then cover with the remaining pasta. Pour the rest of the sauce over the top, making sure everything is evenly coated. Finish with a layer of the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Mostaccioli
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a 375°F oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you like an extra crispy top, you can broil it for a couple of minutes at the end.
Tips for Perfect Baked Mostaccioli
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This makes it perfect for busy weeknight dinners!
- Substitutions: Don’t have mostaccioli noodles? No worries! You can swap them with penne pasta or even spaghetti. The key is to choose a sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well.
- Vegetarian Option: Want to skip the meat? Replace the ground beef with sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Freeze It: This dish is freezer-friendly! After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
This baked mostaccioli pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine. You can also serve it alongside roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini for a more balanced meal. For dessert, try a classic tiramisu or a slice of cheesecake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is mostaccioli?
Mostaccioli is a tubular pasta similar to penne but without the ridges. It’s perfect for baked pasta dishes because it holds onto the sauce and cheese so well.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta instead of mostaccioli?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mostaccioli, you can use penne pasta, spaghetti, or any other sturdy pasta you have on hand.
Q: How do I store and reheat baked mostaccioli?
Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container. To reheat, you can use the microwave or pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It also tastes amazing the next day when the flavors have had time to deepen!
Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! If you want to try something different, you can assemble your baked mostaccioli in small, oven-safe containers and cook them in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes at 350°F.
Bonus Tips for Flavors and Variations
- Add Spices: If you like a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into your sauce mixture.
- Sneak in Veggies: Adding sautéed spinach, diced carrots, or even peas can boost the nutritional content without altering the flavor too much.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
Now that you know how easy it is to make this baked mostaccioli recipe, I bet you’re already planning your grocery run. It’s time to gather your ingredients, get your large pot ready, and start cooking up this delicious, comforting pasta recipe. The result? A cozy, cheesy, saucy dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
