Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the mostaccioli pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Assemble the Baked Mostaccioli

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta and half of the tomato sauce mixture. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
• Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
• Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheeses.

4. Bake

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.

5. Serve

• Remove the Baked Mostaccioli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
• Serve warm and enjoy this deliciously cheesy and comforting pasta dish.

Tips

• Variations: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the Baked Mostaccioli up to the point of baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftover Baked Mostaccioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Serve with: Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables complement Baked Mostaccioli perfectly.

Enjoy this hearty and cheesy Baked Mostaccioli as a comforting meal that brings together the flavors of Italy and the heartiness of a baked pasta dish!