Baked Mostaccioli is a classic, comforting Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd. Tender pasta is baked with savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with a gooey layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.
This dish is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or even ground beef. The baked, cheesy top layer adds a touch of indulgence, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Hearty and Comforting: A warm, cheesy pasta bake that satisfies every craving.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or meal prep with plenty of leftovers.
• Easy to Customize: Swap out vegetables, add spices, or change the protein for endless variations.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
• 16 ounces mostaccioli pasta
• 1 lb bulk Italian sausage
• 1 large green pepper, seeded, veined, and chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4-5 cups marinara or tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
• Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the bulk Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet, transfer to a plate, and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. Using the same skillet, add the chopped green pepper and onion. Cook over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are just starting to brown at the edges.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In the baking dish, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta, browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce.
4. Stir gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
5. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
1. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
2. Follow with the grated parmesan cheese.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and just starting to brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
• Use Fresh Cheese: Shred your mozzarella and parmesan from a block for better melting and flavor.
• Add Heat: Spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled dish (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s sure to bring everyone to the table. Serve it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal!
