Baked mostaccioli is a comforting Italian-American dish featuring pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized with your choice of proteins or vegetables. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort.
What Makes Baked Mostaccioli Special
Baked mostaccioli stands out as a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Its layers of pasta enveloped in rich marinara sauce create a satisfying base, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese add a delightful creaminess.
The golden-brown top, achieved through baking, offers a contrast to the soft pasta beneath. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of baked mostaccioli lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Mostaccioli pasta serves as the foundation, providing a sturdy vessel for the sauce and cheese.
Marinara sauce, often made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, infuses the dish with a robust flavor. Topping it off with a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese not only enhances the taste but also creates that irresistible gooey texture.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing baked mostaccioli is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Start by cooking the pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This ensures that the pasta holds up well during baking.
Mixing the cooked pasta with marinara sauce and seasonings allows for even distribution of flavors. Layering the mixture with cheese in a baking dish creates a visually appealing presentation that is sure to impress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, baked mostaccioli is sure to please a crowd.
It can also be customized with different proteins or vegetables, allowing for creativity in the kitchen. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for many home cooks.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving baked mostaccioli, presentation matters. Serving it in a rustic ceramic dish adds a charming touch, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition and Comfort
Baked mostaccioli is not just delicious; it also offers a satisfying meal option. With a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, it provides the energy needed for a busy day.
Each serving is packed with flavor while remaining a comforting choice for those seeking a hearty dish. This makes it a popular choice for families looking to enjoy a fulfilling meal together.
Easy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe
This baked mostaccioli features al dente pasta mixed with a rich marinara sauce, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Layer the Dish: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g