Bring the comforting flavors of Italy to your dinner table with this Baked Mostaccioli recipe! This classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Pasta Dish
- Comfort Food Delight. The combination of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish the ultimate comfort food.
- Easy to Make. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser. This dish is always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday dinners.
What Does Baked Mostaccioli Taste Like?
Baked Mostaccioli delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each bite is a delightful combination of tender pasta, rich sauce, melted cheese, and, if included, savory meat.
The baked dish is warming and comforting, making it a perfect choice for a hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Is Baked Mostaccioli The Same As Baked Ziti?
While Baked Mostaccioli and Baked Ziti are very similar in terms of ingredients, preparation, and overall flavor, the main difference lies in the type of pasta used.
Both dishes are comforting, hearty, and delicious Italian-American casseroles that can often be used interchangeably in recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Mostaccioli Pasta - The star of the dish, providing a tender and slightly chewy base.
- Olive Oil - Keeps the pasta from sticking and adds a rich flavor.
- Salt - Enhances the natural flavors of the pasta.
- Ground Beef - Adds hearty flavor and protein to the sauce.
- Onion - Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- Garlic - Adds aromatic depth and a hint of spice.
- Tomato Sauce - Creates a rich, tangy foundation for the meat sauce.
- Crushed Tomatoes - Adds texture and a fresh tomato flavor.
- Italian Seasoning - A blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with traditional Italian flavors.
- Salt and Pepper - Enhances and balances the flavors of the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes - Adds a subtle kick of heat.
- Mozzarella Cheese - Melts beautifully, creating a gooey and delicious topping.
- Parmesan Cheese - Adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the dish.
How To Make Baked Mostaccioli
- Cook the Pasta . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef . In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add Tomatoes . Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce . In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Cheese . Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the Mostaccioli . Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Enjoy . Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Tips And Tricks
Creating the perfect baked mostaccioli can be straightforward with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente . Pasta continues to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooking it ensures it doesn’t become mushy.
- Drain Excess Fat . After browning the ground beef and sausage, drain the fat before adding other ingredients.
- Let It Rest . Let the baked mostaccioli sit for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations
Baked Mostaccioli is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Vegetarian- Sauté the vegetables until tender before mixing them with the pasta and sauce.
- Four-Cheese- Add a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone cheeses.
- Spicy- Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by adding more or less chili.
What To Eat With Baked Mostaccioli
Baked mostaccioli pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:
- Garlic Bread - The perfect accompaniment for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Salad - A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables - Adds a healthy, colorful side to your meal.
How Long Does It Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, you can freeze baked mostaccioli. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. For even easier reheating, consider freezing in individual portions.
Freeze the leftover baked pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
More Hearty Dishes
- Calzone Recipe
- Blueberry Cinnamon Roll
- Peruvian Chicken Thighs
- Galinhada
- Sloppy Joes
- Chicken Penne Pasta
- Baked Spaghetti
- Baked Ziti
Baked Mostaccioli Recipe | Easy Baked Pasta
Ingredients
- ▢ 12 oz Mostaccioli Pasta
- ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt , for the water
- ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic
- ▢ 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
- ▢ 15 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
- ▢ 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- ▢ 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- ▢ 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
- ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef . In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add Tomatoes . Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce . In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Cheese . Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the Mostaccioli . Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Enjoy . Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
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Baked Mostaccioli Recipe | Easy Baked Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz Mostaccioli Pasta
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt for the water
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 Onion diced
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
- 15 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef . In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add Tomatoes . Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce . In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Cheese . Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake the Mostaccioli . Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Enjoy . Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Baked Mostaccioli Recipe | Easy Baked Pasta https://twosleevers.com/baked-mostaccioli-recipe/
Wake up to a hearty breakfast with this Copycat Sausage McMuffin recipe! Perfectly seasoned sausage patties, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese all sandwiched between toasted English muffins. This homemade version is easy to make and even more delicious than the fast-food original.
Why You’ll Love This Craveworthy Copycat Recipe
- Quick and Easy . A tasty breakfast that is ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable . Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Incredibly Tasty . Juicy sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese make for an irresistible main course .
- Perfect for Meal Prep . Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy a quick breakfast throughout the week.
Dive into the ultimate homemade breakfast sandwich that’s both satisfying and straightforward to make.
What Does A Sausage McMuffin Taste Like?
A Sausage McMuffin tastes savory, slightly spicy, creamy, and buttery with a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that make it a delicious and comforting breakfast option.
What Is A Sausage McMuffin Made Of
- English Muffins - Provide the structure and a toasty, slightly sweet flavor.
- Sausage Patties - Add savory, juicy, and slightly spicy meatiness.
- Eggs- Introduces an additional layer of protein and richness to the sandwich.
- American Cheese - Offers creamy, melty, and mildly tangy flavor.
- Butter - Enhances the flavor and texture of the toasted muffins.
How To Make A Sausage McMuffin
- Cook the Sausage Patties. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and browned. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Cook the Eggs. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Crack the eggs into the skillet, being careful to keep the yolks intact. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the English Muffins. While the sausage and eggs are cooking, split and toast the English muffins until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwiches. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each English muffin. Top with a sausage patty, then an egg, and finally, cover with the top half of the muffin.
- Serve. Enjoy your Copycat Sausage McMuffin hot, straight from the skillet.
Tips And Tricks
Creating a delicious Sausage McMuffin at home can be easy and rewarding with the right techniques. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make it perfect:
- Perfectly Toasted Muffins . For the best texture, toast the muffins in a skillet with a little butter. This adds flavor and ensures they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Homemade Sausage Patties . If you prefer, you can make your own sausage patties using ground pork, salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
- Melt the Cheese . Place the cheese on the sausage patty while it’s still hot to ensure it melts nicely.
Variations
Making a Sausage McMuffin at home opens up a world of possibilities for customizing this classic breakfast sandwich. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Bacon Egg and Cheese- Add a fried egg and crispy bacon for a deluxe version.
- Veggie- Substitute the sausage with a veggie patty and add avocado slices for a healthier option.
- Spicy- Use spicy sausage patties and add a slice of pepper jack cheese for a kick of heat.
What To Eat With A Sausage McMuffin
A Sausage McMuffin is a delightful breakfast option on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides and beverages can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some delicious suggestions:
- Hash Browns - Classic hash browns are the perfect side for this breakfast sandwich.
- Fresh Fruit - Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a lighter, refreshing contrast.
- Orange Juice - A glass of fresh orange juice or a cup of coffee completes the breakfast experience.
How Long Does It Last?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Wrap each assembled sandwich in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
More Of Our Best Sandwich Recipes
- Breakfast Sliders
- Bacon Egg And Cheese Biscuits
- Ham And Cheese Croissants
- Club Sandwich
- Hot Honey Chicken Sandwiches
Copycat Sausage McMuffin Recipe | English Muffin Sandwich
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 English Muffins
- ▢ 1/2 pound Ground Breakfast Sausage
- ▢ 4 Eggs
- ▢ 4 slices American Cheese
- ▢ 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- ▢ Kosher Salt , to taste
- ▢ Ground Black Pepper , to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage Patties. Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and browned. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Cook the Eggs. In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Crack the eggs into the skillet, being careful to keep the yolks intact. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still slightly runny. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the English Muffins. While the sausage and eggs are cooking, split and toast the English muffins until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwiches. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each English muffin. Top with a sausage patty, then an egg, and finally, cover with the top half of the muffin.
- Serve. Enjoy your Copycat Sausage McMuffin hot, straight from the skillet.
