Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli – Gooey, Comforting Pasta

Craving a cozy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings? This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli combines tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a dish everyone will love. Easy to assemble and bake, it’s a comforting meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melty, gooey cheese on every bite
• Simple and satisfying – perfect for busy weeknights
• Family-friendly – kids and adults alike love it
• Make-ahead friendly – assemble ahead and bake later
• Customizable – add veggies, meat, or different cheeses

Ingredients

• 12 oz uncooked mostaccioli pasta
• 3 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta: Boil mostaccioli according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with marinara sauce.
5. Layer the casserole: Spread half the pasta mixture in the baking dish, dollop half the cheese mixture over it, then repeat the layers.
6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle remaining 1 cup mozzarella evenly on top.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Add sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Extra cheesy: Mix in provolone or fontina for richer flavor.
• Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate overnight; bake when ready.
• Individual portions: Use mini ramekins for personal-sized servings.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Assemble, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or focaccia for a full Italian meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Complement with sparkling water, or iced tea.
• Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep for the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta type?

Yes! Penne, ziti, or rigatoni all work perfectly. Just adjust cooking time to reach al dente texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute dairy-free ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan alternatives. You can also use a dairy-free cream cheese for added richness.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook pasta just until al dente and toss with a little olive oil. Avoid over-saucing the pasta before baking.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken can be folded into the pasta before layering.

Ready to Make It?

This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a classic comfort food with gooey cheese, hearty pasta, and rich marinara sauce. It’s easy to make, family-approved, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it tonight and save this recipe for endless cheesy pasta nights.

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• Classic Irish Colcannon – Mashed potatoes with cabbage and butter for traditional comfort.

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