Baked Mostaccioli is one of those heartwarming meals that truly brings back memories of family gatherings and shared laughter around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a chilly evening, and the house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of Italian sausage, garlic, and bubbling cheese. I could see my children’s eyes light up as they walked in from the cold, and I felt such a warm sense of joy knowing I was about to serve them something delicious and comforting. If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dish that can feed a crowd and bring joy to your loved ones, this Baked Mostaccioli is the perfect choice!
Process for preparing Baked Mostaccioli:
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Cost: Approximately $15
- Servings: 6
- Course: Main course
- Cuisine: Italian
- Calories: About 450 per serving
Ingredients for preparing Baked Mostaccioli:
- Mostaccioli pasta: This is the star of the dish. It holds the sauce and cheese perfectly, creating that lovely baked texture.
- Italian sausage: Adds rich and savory flavor. I love using a mix of mild and spicy sausages for a little kick!
- Bell peppers: They bring a nice sweetness and color to the dish.
- Garlic: Because who can resist the aroma of garlic cooking? It enhances everything!
- Onions: They add depth to the flavor. I always use yellow onions for their sweetness.
- Marinara sauce: This is the base that ties all the flavors together. You can use store-bought or homemade if you have the time!
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and stretches just right. Perfect for that gooey goodness.
- Provolone cheese: Adds a slightly sharp taste that complements the mozzarella well.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables and bringing out their natural flavors.
- Salt: For seasoning to taste.
- Pepper: A simple touch to enhance the flavors.
Personal note: A little trick I love is caramelizing the onions and bell peppers longer than you think. It truly enhances their sweetness and flavor!
Steps to prepare Baked Mostaccioli:
Step 1: Preheat
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this is important for getting that cheese perfectly bubbly!
Step 2: Cook Pasta
- Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside. It’s key to avoid overcooking; we want it to hold up in the bake!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened. This step fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma!
Step 4: Add Sausage
- Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Don’t forget to drain excess fat. This ensures your dish isn’t too greasy.
Step 5: Combine with Sauce
- Stir in marinara sauce and mix well. Then combine the cooked pasta with the sausage mixture. This is where all those mouthwatering flavors come together!
Step 6: Layering
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with more cheese. Yes, you can never have enough cheese!
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. I always love watching the cheese get that golden crust!
Step 8: Let it Sit
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle and makes serving easier!
Why I love making this dish:
Baked Mostaccioli is more than just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. I love how it brings people together, how the cheese pulls apart to create that perfect Instagram-worthy moment, and most importantly, how it warms my family’s hearts. Each bite carries a bit of nostalgia, representing loved ones and laughter.
What you’ll need:
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling the pasta
- Baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Colander for draining pasta
Step-by-step guide to preparing Baked Mostaccioli:
- First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
- Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and mix well. Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage mixture.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with more cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the best results:
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasonings if you feel it’s necessary.
- If you like a bit of spice, throw in some red pepper flakes with the sausage.
- For an extra cheesy finish, broil it for a minute after baking for a beautifully crisp top.
Serving suggestions:
I love pairing Baked Mostaccioli with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for that perfect Italian feast. You could also serve it with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a fancy touch.
What to pair Baked Mostaccioli with:
Consider a light red wine like Chianti or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon to keep it light and enjoyable.
What to do with leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to get that fresh-baked taste again. It also makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking stage, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to serve. -
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with whatever cheese you love or have on hand. -
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burn. -
Can I substitute the sausage?
Sure! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative, or you could go meatless with more veggies or lentils.
Ending on a heartfelt note, I truly believe every kitchen has its story, and Baked Mostaccioli is a wonderful chapter in my culinary journey. I hope you try this recipe and find as much joy in cooking it as I do. It’s simple, delicious, and filled with love—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Baked Mostaccioli
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Mostaccioli pasta The star of the dish.
- 1 pound Italian sausage A mix of mild and spicy for added flavor.
- 1 cup Bell peppers, chopped Adds sweetness and color.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances the flavor.
- 1 cup Onions, chopped Yellow onions add sweetness.
- 2 cups Marinara sauce Use store-bought or homemade.
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded For gooeyness.
- 1 cup Provolone cheese, shredded For added sharpness.
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing.
- to taste Salt For seasoning.
- to taste Pepper For additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
- Add Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and mix well. Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage mixture.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella and provolone cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with more cheese.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.