Easy Mostaccioli Recipe

A Comforting, Cheesy Pasta Bake

If you love hearty, comforting pasta dishes, this Easy Mostaccioli Recipe is a must-try. Packed with Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a deliciously creamy cheese layer, this baked mostaccioli is a perfect weeknight dinner, family gathering dish, or meal prep option. The best part? It’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make – No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
  • Full of flavor – Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and cheesy layers create an unbeatable combination.
  • Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week.
  • Customizable – Swap out ingredients based on preference or dietary needs.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This baked mostaccioli is great for busy home cooks, pasta lovers, and anyone who appreciates a classic Italian-American dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for a chilly night or an easy dish to bring to a dinner party, this recipe will impress with its rich flavors and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta & Sauce:

  • 1 pound uncooked mostaccioli pasta (or penne if unavailable)
  • 2 (24-ounce) jars of marinara sauce
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Meat & Aromatics:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
  • ½ medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Cheese Layer:

  • 8 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Topping:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil and/or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for browning sausage
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or large spoons for mixing
  • Tongs for tossing pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven & Cheese Mixture

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and adjust the rack to the top third of the oven. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the mostaccioli 2 minutes less than the package suggests. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy when baked. Drain and return to the pot.

3. Cook the Sausage Mixture

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage and onion for about 10 minutes until browned. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute before draining excess fat.

4. Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked sausage mixture to the pasta, then pour in the marinara sauce. Toss until well coated.

5. Assemble the Dish

  • Spread half the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  • Spoon the ricotta mixture over the pasta in small dollops.
  • Add the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Bake & Broil

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Then, broil for a few minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning!

7. Serve & Enjoy

Let it cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or a plant-based sausage alternative.
  • Cheese Options: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or mascarpone for extra creaminess.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit sausage and add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
  • Extra Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.

How to Store & Reheat

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual servings.

Best Side Dishes & Drink Pairings

Pair this baked mostaccioli with:

  • Side Dishes: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables.
  • Wine Pairings: A bold Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the flavors.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water with lemon or a classic Italian soda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

2. What if I don’t have mostaccioli pasta?

You can use penne, rigatoni, or ziti as substitutes.

3. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! A homemade tomato sauce will elevate the flavor even more.

4. How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil while baking, then remove it for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Easy Mostaccioli Recipe is a fantastic dish for any occasion, from casual dinners to special gatherings. With its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite.

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