Ultimate Baked Mostaccioli Recipe for a Crowd-Pleasing Italian Feast

If you're looking for a dish that can easily feed a crowd while impressing them with rich, comforting flavors, then look no further than the baked mostaccio……

If you're looking for a dish that can easily feed a crowd while impressing them with rich, comforting flavors, then look no further than the baked mostaccioli recipe. This classic Italian-American pasta casserole is a favorite for good reason: it's hearty, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to create the ultimate baked mostaccioli recipe that will leave your guests coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

### Ingredients for the Ultimate Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of mostaccioli pasta

- 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 jars (24 ounces each) of marinara sauce

- 1 teaspoon of dried basil

- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 cups of ricotta cheese

- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the mostaccioli pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. If there is excess fat, drain it off. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Next, stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

#### Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

#### Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the pasta and meat sauce mixture. Next, dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the meat sauce on top.

#### Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

#### Step 6: Bake the Mostaccioli

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the baked mostaccioli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the compliments from your guests!

### Tips for Success

- **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

- **Vegetarian Option:** For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.

- **Cheese Choices:** Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese can add interesting flavors.

This baked mostaccioli recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to serve something comforting and delicious. With its layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!