Easy Mostaccioli Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Italian Favorite
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house were a cherished tradition. The aroma of her cooking would waft through the air, drawing us in like a warm hug. Among her many delicious dishes, mostaccioli held a special place in my heart. It was a dish that brought everyone together, filled with love and laughter. Today, I want to share this easy mostaccioli recipe that has become a staple in my own home, perfect for gatherings and family celebrations.
What Makes It Special
This mostaccioli recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
- Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies, making it suitable for everyone.
- Comfort Food: The rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it a dish that warms the soul.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
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Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
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Layer the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
My Pro Tips
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For added flavor, sauté some garlic and onions before mixing them into the sauce.
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Feel free to add cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier dish.
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Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Red wine, such as Chianti
- Tiramisu for dessert
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze mostaccioli?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
The Heart of the Dish
Mostaccioli is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of family, love, and the joy of sharing food with those we care about. Each bite takes me back to those lively Sunday dinners, filled with laughter and stories. I hope this recipe brings the same warmth and joy to your table.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this easy mostaccioli recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and share your experiences. I would love to hear how it turns out for you!
Easy Mostaccioli Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Italian Favorite
Ingredients
- 12 ounces mostaccioli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta with the meat sauce mixture.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
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