Easy Mostaccioli is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, savory tomato sauce and plenty of melted cheese. This comforting baked pasta casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. The simplicity of the ingredients—zesty marinara, flavorful ground meat, and gooey mozzarella—makes it a go-to recipe when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. It’s versatile, too, as you can add vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your taste. Serve it with garlic bread and a salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb mostaccioli pasta (or any tubular pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the mostaccioli according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Sauce: Stir the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the meat sauce. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your Easy Mostaccioli hot, served with a side of garlic bread!
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy any pasta lover!
