Warm up your kitchen with this delicious Baked Mostaccioli recipe! Packed with savory flavors and hearty textures, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy the whole family.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Protein: 25g
**Popular questions:**
1. How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
– You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or add more veggies like mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
– Yes, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta for this recipe.
3. Can I freeze baked mostaccioli?
– Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just make sure to cool it completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.
4. Can I add spices like oregano or basil?
– Feel free to customize the flavor with additional herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
– Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly grated cheese will melt more evenly and have better flavor.
6. How long does it take to cook the ground beef mixture?
– It usually takes about 10-12 minutes to brown the ground beef with onions and garlic.
7. Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
– Absolutely, feel free to add diced tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
– Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for a unique taste.
9. How can I make this dish spicier?
– Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to kick up the heat in this recipe.
10. What can I serve with Baked Mostaccioli?
– It pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Mix in some Italian sausage for extra flavor and texture.
2. Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping before baking.
3. Add a splash of red wine to the ground beef mixture for depth of flavor.
4. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Experiment with different cheese combinations for a unique twist.
6. Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals.
7. Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
8. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top before baking for added richness.
9. Try adding a layer of ricotta cheese in between the pasta and sauce for a creamy touch.
10. Customize the dish with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Saute the onions and garlic until golden brown for maximum flavor.
2. Use a good quality marinara sauce for a rich and authentic taste.
3. Let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set.
4. Pre-cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
5. Season each layer of the dish with salt and pepper for well-balanced flavors.
6. For a meatier version, add diced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage to the ground beef mixture.
7. Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
8. Sprinkle a little bit of sugar into the marinara sauce to cut through the acidity.
9. Broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking to get a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
10. Don’t skimp on the cheese – a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan will elevate the dish to new heights.
Enjoy this Baked Mostaccioli recipe as a cozy and comforting dinner option that is sure to become a family favorite.