Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe | Easy Family Dinner Idea

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to family dinners. It’s not only delicious, but it’s also simple to make and requires ingredients that can easily be found in your kitchen or local grocery store. This meal is packed with cheesy goodness and savory flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Whether you are looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to share at a family gathering, Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or dietary restrictions. Many families enjoy this dish as it combines pasta, meat, and cheese in a way that is satisfying and filling. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze. With minimal prep time and a simple cooking process, you’ll find that this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you still want to serve something homemade and comforting.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

Making Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Gather your ingredients, follow the directions, and enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked dinner that brings the family together.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli:

• 16 oz mostaccioli pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Note: For dietary needs, you can use gluten-free pasta. You may also substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a healthier twist.

Directions

To prepare your Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Begin by cooking the mostaccioli pasta according to the package directions. Make sure to season the water with a pinch of salt for added flavor. Once cooked al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Next, add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the meat is cooked, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta with the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta layer.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, and finish with 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
10. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
11. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set slightly for easier serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting dish that stands well on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious addition.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the rich pasta dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Adding a side of seasonal steamed vegetables can make your meal feel even more balanced.

For a more festive occasion, consider garnishing your individual servings with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely you’ll have much!), you can easily store them for future meals. Follow these simple storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Allow the baked mostaccioli to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Freeze: If you want to keep it for a longer time, freeze the dish before or after baking. To do so, wrap the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meat sauce and cook the pasta a day ahead. Store them in the refrigerator separately until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Adding in some cheddar or provolone can give a nice twist to the flavor.
• Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while cooking.
• Use Different Sauces: While marinara is the classic choice, you can also try a creamy alfredo sauce for a richer taste, or even a combination of the two.

Variations

Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is highly adaptable to suit different tastes:

• Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
• Different Meats: Switch out the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option.
• Add Spices or Sauces: Use a barbeque sauce or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a completely different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. You can assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking it.

2. What is mostaccioli?
Mostaccioli is a type of pasta that is shaped like large tubes, similar to penne but without ridges. It is great for holding onto sauces.

3. Can I substitute the meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a healthier and still tasty option.

With these simple steps and adjustments, you’ll not only be able to create your own Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli but also make it your own. This dish is indeed a family favorite that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites. Enjoy your cheesy, hearty meal!

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