This recipe is a classic crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients into a delicious, filling meal. The pasta holds the sauce beautifully, while the baked cheese layer adds a gooey, golden finish. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days, and it reheats wonderfully for leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a large group or just craving comfort food, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
mostaccioli pasta ground beef or Italian sausage onion garlic marinara sauce crushed tomatoes Italian seasoning salt black pepper ricotta cheese mozzarella cheese parmesan cheese egg fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the mostaccioli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with the egg and a portion of the parmesan cheese.
Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, mixing well.
In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, then spread the ricotta mixture over it. Add the remaining pasta on top.
Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6–8 people Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 35–40 minutes Total time: about 1 hour
Variations
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using a hearty vegetable-based sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make baked mostaccioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Can I freeze baked mostaccioli?
Yes, it freezes very well either before or after baking. Just store it in a freezer-safe container.
What’s the difference between mostaccioli and penne?
Mostaccioli is typically smooth, while penne has ridges. Both can be used interchangeably.
Can I use jarred sauce?
Absolutely, jarred marinara works perfectly and saves time.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook it just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes, you can add extra mozzarella or even provolone for a cheesier dish.
Is ricotta necessary?
Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can substitute cottage cheese if needed.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat and use a vegetable-based sauce or add sautéed vegetables.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, ziti or penne are great substitutes.
How long should it rest before serving?
Let it rest for about 5–10 minutes so it sets and is easier to serve.
Conclusion
Baked Mostaccioli is the ultimate comfort dish that combines rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
This Baked Mostaccioli recipe is a classic Italian-American comfort dish made with hearty pasta, rich meat sauce, and layers of creamy ricotta and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, this easy baked pasta is satisfying, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:35–40 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:6–8 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Mostaccioli pasta
Ground beef or Italian sausage
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Marinara sauce
Crushed tomatoes
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Egg
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook mostaccioli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned.
Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until softened and fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with the egg and part of the parmesan cheese.
Combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce and mix well.
In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over it.
Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining parmesan cheese evenly.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.Letting the dish rest helps it set and makes serving easier.You can assemble ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
