My Italian neighbor showed me this dish, and we knew we had to snag the recipe!
Baked Mostaccioli is a beloved pasta dish that originates from Italy but has been adopted and adapted by American kitchens over the years. It’s known for its simplicity, yet bold flavors that come together beautifully in every bite. In this article, we’ll explore the art of making Baked Mostaccioli, from selecting the finest ingredients to the final presentation on your dinner table.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mostaccioli pasta | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 2, minced |
| Ground beef or Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Marinara sauce | 1 (24-ounce) jar |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated (divided) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh basil | For garnish (optional) |
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Baked Mostaccioli cooks evenly and develops those irresistible flavors.
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the Mostaccioli according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember, you want the pasta slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the oven later.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: While the pasta is boiling, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are tender and aromatic.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Simmer with Marinara Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked meat mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together into a rich and savory sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the meaty sauce over the pasta, then add half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce and cheese.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9″x13″ baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top, ensuring every inch is covered in cheesy goodness. Dust the top with Italian seasoning for that extra burst of flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the Baked Mostaccioli to cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.
