Are you ready to fall in love with a dish that is as creamy as it is flavorful? Introducing Baked Mostaccioli, a delightful pasta dish that combines tender noodles, rich marinara sauce, and an irresistible layer of gooey cheese. Picture this: a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, the aroma wafting through your home, enticing everyone to gather around the dinner table. And here’s a fun fact: “mostaccioli” means “little mustaches” in Italian, a nod to the pasta’s unique shape! With its layers of flavor and simple preparation, this dish is perfect not just for busy weeknights but also for potlucks and family gatherings. If you love the comforting vibes of dishes like Lasagna or Baked Ziti, you’ll absolutely adore Baked Mostaccioli. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
What is Baked Mostaccioli?
Isn’t it a funny name? Baked Mostaccioli might sound fancy, but trust me, it’s as down-to-earth as they come! Imagine a dish that practically begs you to dig in—its name hardly does it justice! Why “mostaccioli,” you ask? Well, it’s the pasta’s little mustache shape that truly steals the spotlight (I mean, who doesn’t want to eat something named after a funny facial feature?). In the world of pasta, the way to anyone’s heart is certainly through this cheesy, saucy dish. Are you excited to try making this culinary delight? Let’s dive into the why’s, how’s, and what’s of Baked Mostaccioli!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Mostaccioli
There are three fabulous reasons to fall head over heels for Baked Mostaccioli! First off, the main highlight is that creamy and melty cheese blanket. Who could resist a dish topped with bubbly mozzarella and ricotta that stretches just right as you serve it up? Secondly, making Baked Mostaccioli at home is incredibly budget-friendly. It uses simple, hearty ingredients that won’t break the bank, meaning you can feed a crowd without a fuss. And let’s not forget those flavorful toppings! The combination of marinara sauce and Italian herbs melds perfectly with the pasta, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite. If you’re a fan of comforting dishes like Cheesy Baked Penne, you’ll find that Baked Mostaccioli is a perfect addition to your dinner rotation. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s create something delicious!
How to Make Baked Mostaccioli
Quick Overview
Baked Mostaccioli is a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal without a hectic cooking process. The recipe requires about 25 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking time—so you can have dinner on the table in under an hour! With rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and a comforting vibe, you’ll definitely want to add this dish to your repertoire.
Key Ingredients for Baked Mostaccioli
- 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine: Add the cooked mostaccioli to the sauce mixture, tossing to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Layer in the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Add More Layers: Pour the remaining pasta mixture into the dish, top with the rest of the 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 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let sit for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.
What to Serve Baked Mostaccioli With
Baked Mostaccioli pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a fresh crunch, perhaps some garlic bread for that delightful buttery goodness, or even a side of steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, consider serving it with a glass of your favorite non-alcoholic beverage, like a sparkling lemon soda or iced tea!
Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Mostaccioli
- Substituting Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or any combination of cheeses to suit your taste.
- Making Ahead: Prep this dish a day in advance! Simply cover it tightly in the refrigerator before baking and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
- Avoid Overcooking: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook while baking, so keep an eye on your boiling time to ensure it remains al dente.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Baked Mostaccioli is perfect for leftovers! Store any uneaten portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If it’s frozen, it’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to enjoy this delicious comfort food that will surely become a family favorite. So roll up your sleeves and dig into Baked Mostaccioli—your taste buds will thank you!
Baked Mostaccioli
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cooked mostaccioli to the sauce mixture, tossing to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Pour the remaining pasta mixture into the dish, top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh basil if desired, then serve warm.
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