Discover the delightful flavors of Baked Mostaccioli, a dish that holds a special place in my heart. Nestled between its famous pasta bake cousins, lasagna and baked ziti, Mostaccioli is the unsung hero of Italian cuisine. With its ridged, tube-like shape, it captures all the saucy, cheesy goodness that makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a potluck, a family gathering, or a cozy evening at home, this hearty dish is sure to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Plus, it's even better the next day, making it a lunchtime delight.
Pairing Suggestions:
To balance the richness of Baked Mostaccioli, I recommend pairing it with a crisp, green salad. A Caesar or arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly. And let's not forget the garlic bread – after all, when it's pasta night, going all out is a must!
Baked Mostaccioli Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Mostaccioli pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (depending on your preference)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to create a flavorful blast furnace for your dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Mostaccioli according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente consistency. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so avoid overboiling.
3. While the pasta is boiling, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become tender and release their fabulous aroma.
4. Add the ground beef or sausage to the onion mixture, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it's browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to achieve indulgent flavors without the greasiness.
5. Stir in your favorite marinara sauce with the meat and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remember, a good sauce is the backbone of this dish!
6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the meaty, saucy mixture over the pasta and add half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until every piece of pasta is coated in the rich, red glory.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9"x13" baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top because, let's admit it, cheese is life! Dust the dish with Italian seasoning for that extra herby punch.
8. Bake the dish uncovered for approximately 25 minutes or until the cheese turns bubbly and develops those irresistible golden brown spots.
9. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven (if you can resist). If desired, garnish with fresh basil to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Conclusion:
Baked Mostaccioli is a tantalizing pasta bake that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Its combination of flavorful pasta, rich meat sauce, and melty cheese will make it an instant favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy the dish on its own or pair it with a refreshing salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian feast. With its easy preparation and the added bonus of tasting even better as leftovers, Baked Mostaccioli is a true delight for any pasta lover.