restaurant_menu Recipes

Ultimate Baked Mostaccioli Recipe: A Cheesy Family Favorite

calendar_today February 24, 2026 schedule 2 min read

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Prep

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Cook

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Rest

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Servings

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Calories

703 kcal

A classic baked pasta dish with mostaccioli, a rich meat sauce, and plenty of cheese.

restaurant_menu Ingredients format_list_numbered Instructions

restaurant_menu Ingredients

Servings

Pasta

check 16 ounces mostaccioli pasta

Meat Sauce

check 2 tablespoons olive oil check 1 medium yellow onion, diced check 1 pound ground beef check 1 pound Italian pork sausage, casings removed check 3 cloves garlic, minced check 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning check 1 teaspoon chili flakes check 1½ teaspoons sea salt, or to taste check ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, or to taste check 3 cups crushed tomatoes

Cheese & Extras

check ¼ cup ricotta cheese check 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese check 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese check chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

hardware Essential Tools

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Large pot

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Large skillet

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9x13 inch baking dish

format_list_numbered Preparation

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Cook the mostaccioli pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion until softened, then brown ground beef and Italian sausage.

Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.

Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes.

Assembly & Baking

Combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese in a large bowl.

Spread half the mixture in the baking dish, top with half the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Repeat layers, then bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, garnished with parsley.

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Try These Variations

Here are some delicious variations to try:

Vegetarian Baked Mostaccioli: Omit the meat and add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Chicken Baked Mostaccioli

Use cooked chicken instead of ground beef and sausage.

Spicy Baked Mostaccioli

Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicier kick.

Creamy Baked Mostaccioli

Stir in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.

Baked Mostaccioli with Pesto

Stir a few tablespoons of pesto into the pasta mixture for a burst of fresh flavor.

Chef's Pro Tips

Use Fresh Herbs

Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce will enhance the flavor.

Brown the Meat Well

Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the sauce.

Add a Splash of Red Wine

A splash of red wine to the sauce will add richness and complexity.

Use a Variety of Cheeses

Experiment with different cheeses to create your own unique flavor profile.

Storage Guide

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Store leftover baked mostaccioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

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Yes, you can freeze baked mostaccioli for longer storage. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Avoid These Mistakes

✕ Overcooking the Pasta

This will result in a mushy texture.

✕ Not Seasoning the Sauce Enough

Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

✕ Using Low-Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients will affect the flavor of the final dish.

✕ Not Letting it Rest

Allowing the baked mostaccioli to rest before serving is important for the cheese to set and the flavors to meld.

nutrition Nutrition Facts

Per serving: One serving

703kcal Calories

54g Carbohydrates

40g Protein

36g Fat

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.

flag Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends and family, this baked mostaccioli recipe is sure to please. With its layers of flavor, cheesy topping, and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again. Enjoy!

sell Related Topics

#pasta bake #Italian sausage #ground beef #cheese casserole #comfort food

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta? expand_more

Yes, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta for mostaccioli.

Can I make this vegetarian? expand_more

Absolutely! Omit the meat and add your favorite vegetables.

Can I assemble this ahead of time? expand_more

Yes, you can assemble the baked mostaccioli ahead of time and bake it later. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together? expand_more

Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil before adding it to the sauce.

Can I use store-bought sauce? expand_more

Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought pasta sauce to save time.