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Mostaccioli

Mostaccioli

This mostaccioli recipe features hearty Italian sausage and gooey mozzarella in a flavorful marinara sauce, perfect for cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Comfort Dinners
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound uncooked mostaccioli pasta the star of the dish, it holds all the flavors beautifully.
For the Filling
  • 1 pound Italian sausage adds a rich, meaty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the mostaccioli.
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped provides a sweet aroma when sautéed, complementing the sausage perfectly.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced brings an irresistible scent and depth to your dish.
  • 8 ounces ricotta cheese creamy goodness that helps create layers of delightful texture.
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty kick that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder intensifies the garlic flavor and enhances the overall taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano infuses a hint of Mediterranean flavor, perfect for this hearty meal.
For the Sauce
  • 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce the essential element that ties all ingredients together, ensuring a luscious coating for the pasta.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pleasant kick.
For Topping
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese melts to perfection, creating a gooey topping that crowns the dish.
  • Salt & pepper to taste essential for elevating all the flavors in the dish.
  • Fresh basil and/or parsley for serving (optional) adds a pop of freshness and color to your finished creation.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • baking dish
  • Medium bowl
  • Large pot

Method
 

How to Make Mostaccioli
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This allows your oven to reach the perfect temperature for baking that cheesy goodness.
  2. Mix the ricotta, parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in a medium bowl until smooth. This creamy mixture will add layers of flavor throughout your mostaccioli.
  3. Boil salted water and cook the mostaccioli for 2 minutes less than instructed on the package. This ensures the pasta will be al dente after baking, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
  4. Cook the Italian sausage and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes; the aroma will be irresistible!
  5. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage mixture. Cook for another minute until fragrant, creating a flavor-packed base for your dish.
  6. Combine the cooked mostaccioli with the sausage mixture in a large pot, then pour in the marinara sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish. Spoon the cheese mixture on top, add the remaining pasta, and finish with the shredded mozzarella. This layering creates a lovely cheesy top.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes, then switch to broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure it doesn’t burn!
  9. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant touch before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

When making Mostaccioli, always cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package instructions to ensure it remains al dente after baking. Avoid overcrowding your skillet when cooking the Italian sausage and onion to preserve flavor.

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