Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Meat Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Imagine layers of tender mostaccioli pasta smothered in rich, aromatic meat sauce, topped with bubbling, golden cheese. The Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Meat Sauce Recipe is a comfort food classic that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. You’ll love the way the melted cheese creates a luscious, gooey topping over perfectly cooked pasta. You’ll learn how to make this dish step by step, achieving a restaurant-quality baked pasta at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Meat Sauce Recipe stands out for its irresistible textures and rich, hearty flavors. The tender, slightly firm pasta perfectly complements the robust, aromatic meat sauce infused with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs. The top layer of gooey, golden mozzarella and parmesan adds a creamy, indulgent finish that melts in your mouth. It’s easy to prepare, yet looks and tastes like a gourmet meal. This recipe balances comfort with flavor sophistication, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. You’ll love the satisfying contrast of cheesy, saucy, and perfectly baked pasta in every bite.

Ingredients

1 lb. mostaccioli pasta (or penne)
1 lb. ground beef (or ground Italian sausage for extra flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz. jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ tsp. salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp. olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Pro Tips

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce perfectly while baking, preventing mushy texture.
Layer for Maximum Flavor: Spread sauce on the bottom of the baking dish first, then pasta, followed by cheese. Repeat for even distribution.
Cheese Topping: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for gooeyness and a nutty, golden crust. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked mozzarella or provolone.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. This ensures the pasta won’t stick while baking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook mostaccioli pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
Heat 2 tbsp. olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook until browned, breaking meat into crumbles.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Pasta
Reduce heat to low and stir in marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to let flavors meld. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until every piece is coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Layer the remaining pasta and top with the remaining cheeses.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown crust.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Allow the baked pasta to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Cheese Lover’s Twist: Add ricotta cheese layers for a creamier, lasagna-inspired flavor.
Spicy Variation: Mix in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a kick of heat.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover baked mostaccioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Freeze for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in foil. Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a light red wine like Chianti or a crisp sparkling water.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well. Avoid very thin pasta like spaghetti.

3. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives.

4. How do I prevent the pasta from being dry?
Cook pasta slightly under al dente and ensure it’s well-coated with sauce before baking.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauce and cheese are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Meat Sauce Recipe is comfort food at its finest — rich, cheesy, and full of hearty flavors. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still delivering a restaurant-quality baked pasta experience at home.