There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich, layered goodness of mostaccioli. This dish combines the heartiness of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella into a warm embrace that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or simply feeding the family on a busy weeknight, mostaccioli promises to deliver satisfaction. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to make even if you’re a novice cook! The aroma wafting through your kitchen while it bakes is enough to have everyone gathering in anticipation. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
Mostaccioli is a satisfying and comforting pasta dish that combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with a delightful blend of cheeses. This recipe simplifies the traditional lasagna, offering layers of flavor without the hassle. The creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and gooey mozzarella meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is a delicious experience.
Why You’ll Love This Mostaccioli
Not only is this mostaccioli recipe a family favorite, but it’s also a practical choice for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and is ideal for feeding a crowd. The balanced flavors and cheesy goodness will keep you coming back for more. Plus, the aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked mostaccioli pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and/or parsley for serving (optional)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
Combine the Cheeses
Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano until smooth. Set aside.
Cooking the Pasta
Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the mostaccioli for 2 minutes less than the package directions indicate. Once cooked, drain and return the pasta to the pot.
Browning the Sausage
Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a skillet, add the Italian sausage and chopped onion. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking the sausage into pieces until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Flavoring the Dish
Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Combining Ingredients
Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the skillet mixture to the pot of cooked pasta. Pour in the marinara sauce and toss until the pasta is fully coated.
Layering the Mostaccioli
Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture evenly in a 9×13 baking dish. Spoon dollops of the cheese mixture over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta and sauce mixture, spreading it evenly, and finally sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking the Mostaccioli
Bake and Broil
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Then, broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on it while broiling.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your mostaccioli with fresh basil and/or parsley before serving to enhance its flavor and presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the sausage mixture.
- Ensure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Make the mostaccioli a day in advance and refrigerate covered. Just bake it right before serving!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace Italian sausage with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or artichokes.
- Cheesy Delight: Add an extra layer of your favorite cheese or mix in some goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the sausage mixture.
Storage Tips
Mostaccioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through for best results!
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, while mostaccioli is traditional, penne or ziti also work well.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free mostaccioli or any gluten-free pasta of your choice.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
4. What can I serve with mostaccioli?
It pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
5. Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, you can reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave. Oven reheating retains the texture better.
There’s something heartwarming about a dish of mostaccioli, with its layers of cheesy goodness and savory sausage. Not only is it perfect for family meals, but it also shines during gatherings, showcasing comfort food at its finest. You’ll savor each bite, and your loved ones will undoubtedly ask for seconds! Enjoy the process, share the dish, and relish the joy it brings to your table.
Print
Mostaccioli
This mostaccioli is a comforting pasta dish that combines savory Italian sausage with rich cheeses, perfect for family meals or gatherings. It’s simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked mostaccioli pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh basil and/or parsley for serving (optional)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix ricotta, parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in a medium bowl.
- Boil salted water and cook mostaccioli for 2 minutes less than instructed.
- Cook Italian sausage and onion in a skillet until browned.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes to sausage mixture and cook until fragrant.
- Combine pasta and sausage mixture in a pot, then add marinara sauce.
- Layer half the pasta in a baking dish, spoon cheese mixture on top, add remaining pasta, and top with mozzarella.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then broil until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra flavor.
Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness during baking.
Prepare a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 56
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 75
