Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

Looking for a scrumptious and filling dish to satisfy your pasta cravings? This Baked Mostaccioli Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
• 2. Cook mostaccioli according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• 3. In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
• 4. Combine cooked mostaccioli, ground beef mixture, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
• 5. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
• 6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• 7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Protein: 25g

Popular questions:

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute mostaccioli with penne or rigatoni for a similar result.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner protein option in this recipe.

• Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the ground beef and add more veggies or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

• Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

• What can I serve with Baked Mostaccioli?

Garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.

• How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Feel free to add more Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

• Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly in this recipe.

• What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Helpful tips:

• Add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity of the marinara sauce.
• Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness.
• For a smoky flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the ground beef mixture.
• Try using a blend of different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for a unique twist.
• Make a vegetarian version by using meatless crumbles or chopped mushrooms instead of ground beef.
• For a creamy texture, mix in a spoonful of ricotta cheese with the marinara sauce before baking.
• Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a personalized touch.
• To add a spicy kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the pasta mixture.
• Customize the dish with your favorite veggies such as spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed croutons over the cheese before baking.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer and more intense flavor profile.
• Add a splash of red wine to the ground beef mixture for a depth of flavor.
• Layer thinly sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage between the pasta and cheese for added protein.
• Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the dish before baking for a glossy finish.
• Try mixing in a dollop of pesto sauce with the marinara for a burst of herbal essence.
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and butter on top for a crunchy and flavorful crust.
• Bake the dish uncovered for the last few minutes for a golden and crispy cheese topping.
• Experiment with different types of cheeses like gouda, asiago, or blue cheese for a gourmet touch.