Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a simple, cheesy, and utterly delicious baked pasta dish, then this Mostaccioli Bake is for you. This hearty meal is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. With layers of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese, it’s everything you want in a baked pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Mostaccioli Bake

  • Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together in under an hour.
  • Comforting and Hearty – The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese creates the ultimate satisfying meal.
  • Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this dish is always a hit.

Who is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, especially those looking for an easy yet impressive dish to serve family and friends. If you’re a fan of classic Italian-American comfort food, this dish will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Cooking spray
  • ½ (16-ounce) package mostaccioli pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, or to taste
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar cheese pasta sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13-inch glass baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Measuring cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and crumbly (5 to 7 minutes). Sprinkle with seasoned salt, then drain any excess grease.
  4. Mix Everything Together: In the same skillet, combine the drained pasta with the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and 3 cups of mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.
  5. Assemble & Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Serve & Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Make it Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
  • Vegetarian Option – Swap the beef for mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute.
  • Extra Creamy – Stir in ½ cup of ricotta or cottage cheese for added richness.
  • Different Cheeses – Try mixing in Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone for extra flavor.
  • Add More Protein – Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or shredded chicken.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for quick servings or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Best Pairings for Mostaccioli Bake

  • Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up the cheesy sauce.
  • Caesar Salad – A fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich pasta.
  • Red Wine – A glass of Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with this dish.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or ziti all work well in this dish.

How do I make it less cheesy?

Simply reduce the amount of mozzarella to 2 cups for a lighter version.

What can I substitute for pasta sauce?

You can use marinara sauce, homemade tomato sauce, or even Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Mostaccioli Bake is a tried-and-true comfort food that never disappoints. It’s easy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.

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Happy Cooking! 🍝

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