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Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli

  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting and easy-to-make baked pasta dish featuring tender mostaccioli pasta baked with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. This hearty, cheesy casserole is ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, and can be customized with proteins or vegetables to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sauce

  • 12 oz Mostaccioli pasta
  • 3 cups Marinara sauce (rich and well-seasoned)

Cheeses

  • 1 cup Ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (basil, oregano, garlic powder mix)
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the mostaccioli in salted water until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce and Mix: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce with ricotta cheese and Italian herbs. Gently stir the cooked pasta into this mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated.
  3. Layer and Add Cheese: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish by topping with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a bubbling finish.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly bubbly around the edges.
  5. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the baked mostaccioli to rest for 5 minutes outside the oven. This helps the dish set slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing the melding of flavors.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta; undercook slightly to avoid mushiness when baking.
  • Use fresh mozzarella and high-quality parmesan for best flavor and texture.
  • Distribute sauce and cheese evenly for every bite to be cheesy and saucy.
  • Let the dish rest before serving to help it hold its shape and improve flavor.
  • Optionally, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli, baked pasta, comfort food, family dinner, easy pasta bake, Italian casserole

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Find it online: https://marysplate.com/cheesy-baked-mostaccioli/