Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe
Welcome to a delightful culinary journey that combines the heartiness of baked pasta with the irresistible allure of cheese. If you’re craving a comforting and flavorsome dish that will tantalize your taste buds, then this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and gooey cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a perfect harmony of creamy cheese, savory tomato sauce, and al dente pasta. The dish offers a satisfying blend of textures, with a crispy golden top giving way to a luscious and cheesy interior. One bite of this comforting baked pasta will transport you to a realm of culinary bliss, making it an ideal choice for cozy nights in or celebratory gatherings.
Ingredients
For this tantalizing Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli, you will need the following ingredients:
– Mostaccioli pasta – Marinara sauce – Mozzarella cheese – Parmesan cheese – Ricotta cheese – Fresh basil – Garlic – Olive oil – Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. 3. Add marinara sauce to the garlic and simmer for a few minutes. 4. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese with chopped fresh basil. 5. In a baking dish, layer the cooked mostaccioli, marinara sauce, and cheese mixture. 6. Repeat the layers and top with additional cheese. 7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden. 8. Let it cool slightly before serving, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Expert Tips for Success
To elevate this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli to perfection, consider these expert tips: – Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and meltability. – Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. – Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. – Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to set and intensify the flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can customize your Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli in the following ways: – Substitute the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor. – Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meaty variation. – Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for added freshness and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette and a slice of garlic bread. For a complete Italian feast, serve alongside a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the richness of the dish.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it’s heated through. Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! Simply portion the leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for future indulgence. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F until heated through.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a cheese lover, pasta enthusiast, or simply seeking a comforting and satisfying meal, this dish ticks all the boxes. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses and warm your heart.
Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe
Indulge in the delightful harmony of creamy cheese, savory tomato sauce, and al dente mostaccioli pasta in this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli recipe. With layers of gooey cheese and a crispy golden top, this comforting dish is perfect for cozy nights in or celebratory gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Mostaccioli pasta
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F and cook the mostaccioli pasta until al dente.
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In a pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
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Add marinara sauce to the garlic and simmer for a few minutes.
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In a bowl, mix mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese with fresh basil.
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Layer the cooked mostaccioli, marinara sauce, and cheese mixture in a baking dish.
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Repeat the layers and top with additional cheese.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Let it cool slightly before serving, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
