Baked Mostaccioli

A Classic Italian Comfort Dish, Perfectly Cheesy and Flavorful

This Baked Mostaccioli is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines tender pasta, a hearty meat sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table — warm, comforting, and bursting with rich tomato flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any night you crave a cozy baked pasta dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) mostaccioli pasta (or penne if unavailable)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 (24 oz / 680 g) jar marinara sauce or your favorite tomato pasta sauce
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (240 g) ricotta cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
3. Drain and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce until evenly coated.
3. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
4. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese evenly over the pasta.
5. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
6. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Let the baked mostaccioli rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy this comforting, cheesy masterpiece!

Tips for the Best Baked Mostaccioli

• For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef or turkey.
• Feel free to add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• This dish freezes well — perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights.