Ingredients
1 cup mostaccioli pasta
The recipe for Easy Baked Mostaccioli calls for a specific ingredient that serves as the foundation for this delicious Italian-American dish: 1 cup of mostaccioli pasta.
Mostaccioli pasta is a type of tubular pasta originating from Italy, characterized by its smooth surface and cylindrical shape. Its name is derived from the Italian word “mostaccio,” which refers to a sweet almond cookie traditionally enjoyed during Carnevale celebrations in Italy.
In terms of ingredients, this particular cup of mostaccioli pasta will play a crucial role in soaking up the rich flavors of the cheese sauce and meat or vegetable add-ins, creating a satisfying and filling main course for family dinners or special occasions.
2 tablespoons olive oil
Olive oil is one of the primary ingredients used in the preparation of many Italian dishes, including the popular baked mostaccioli recipe. When it comes to measuring out the right amount, 2 tablespoons of olive oil are typically required to add moisture and a subtle flavor to the pasta.
The use of olive oil in cooking is not new, with its benefits being well-documented for centuries. Not only does it provide a distinctive taste to dishes, but it also contains healthy fats that are essential for various bodily functions. When choosing an olive oil to use in recipes, look for one that has been cold-pressed from high-quality olives.
In the context of baked mostaccioli, 2 tablespoons of olive oil will likely be combined with other ingredients such as onions, garlic, and ground beef or sausage. The oil serves as a base for sautéing these ingredients until they are softened and fragrant, at which point additional seasonings can be added to enhance the overall flavor.
The type of olive oil used can also impact the flavor profile of the dish. For instance, using a mild oil such as Arbequina will add a delicate taste, while a robust oil like Frantoio will impart a stronger, more peppery flavor. Ultimately, selecting an olive oil that complements the other ingredients and desired outcome is key to achieving success with this recipe.
Once the olive oil has been incorporated into the dish, the baked mostaccioli can be completed by adding pasta, tomato sauce, and other seasonings before baking in the oven until hot and bubbly. The 2 tablespoons of olive oil will have played a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together to create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
When preparing this recipe at home, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh vegetables and lean meats if desired. This will not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a healthier diet. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of olive oil or other ingredients to create unique variations on this classic dish.
1 onion, chopped
- For this recipe, you will need one onion that has been chopped into small pieces.
- The onion should be finely minced and evenly sized so that it cooks at a consistent rate during the baking process.
- To chop an onion, you can start by peeling the onion to remove its outer layer, which may be a bit tougher than the inner layers.
- Next, place the peeled onion on a cutting board and hold it firmly in place with one hand.
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slice through the top of the onion, making sure not to cut too deeply and damage the root end.
- Continue to make parallel cuts through the onion, about 1/4 inch apart, being careful not to apply too much pressure and causing the onion to tear.
- Once you have made a series of parallel cuts through the onion, turn it over and continue to chop it in a crisscross pattern until it is finely minced.
- The chopped onion should be evenly sized and finely textured so that it cooks quickly and evenly during the baking process.
- Now that your onion is chopped, you can proceed with the rest of the Easy Baked Mostaccioli recipe, combining the chopped onion with other ingredients such as ground beef or sausage, tomato sauce, and mostaccioli pasta for a delicious and satisfying dish.
3 garlic cloves, minced
The key to a rich and flavorful Easy Baked Mostaccioli lies in its ingredients, and among them, three garlic cloves play a significant role. Mincing these cloves releases their natural oils and flavors, allowing them to infuse into the dish as it cooks.
Mincing garlic involves using a sharp knife to chop the cloves finely until they are almost pulverized. This process is essential for several reasons: first, it increases the surface area of the garlic, exposing more of its active compounds that contribute to flavor and aroma; secondly, it helps distribute the garlic’s essence evenly throughout the dish.
When working with three garlic cloves, mincing them ensures that their flavor won’t overpower other ingredients in your Easy Baked Mostaccioli. The delicate balance between flavors is crucial in pasta dishes like this one, where tomato sauce, cheese, and pasta come together to create a harmonious taste experience.
To incorporate the minced garlic into your recipe, mix it with olive oil or butter before adding it to the pan. This helps distribute its flavor evenly among other ingredients as they sauté, further enhancing their natural flavors without overpowering them.
1 pound ground beef
The recipe for Easy Baked Mostaccioli requires several key ingredients, with one being 1 pound ground beef.
This ingredient serves as a primary component of the dish’s meat-based element and is used in combination with other components to create the mostaccioli’s signature flavor profile.
Ground beef is an ideal choice for this recipe due to its high moisture content, which helps maintain the pasta dish’s consistency and prevents it from drying out during baking.
The use of ground beef also allows for efficient cooking time, as it can be quickly browned in a pan and then combined with other ingredients, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or special occasion dish.
To properly prepare the ground beef for the recipe, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is browned.
- Once the ground beef has reached a suitable color and texture, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside for later use in the recipe.
This initial preparation of the ground beef lays the groundwork for its integration into the mostaccioli dish, which requires attention to flavor balance and texture consistency to create a harmonious combination of ingredients.
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- The first ingredient for our Easy Baked Mostaccioli recipe is a staple found in many Italian sauces: 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes.
- This large can of crushed tomatoes serves as the foundation of our tomato sauce, providing a rich and intense flavor that will infuse into the pasta throughout the baking process.
- When selecting this ingredient, look for a high-quality brand with no added salt or sugars. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes should be enough to add depth to our sauce without any unwanted extras.
- The 28-oz size provides us with a generous amount of crushed tomatoes, allowing us to make a substantial batch of sauce that will coat each piece of pasta evenly.
- By using crushed tomatoes rather than whole or diced tomatoes, we’ll get a smoother, more velvety texture in our finished sauce. This is especially important for a baked mostaccioli dish, where the pasta and sauce are combined and then baked together until golden brown.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Parmesan cheese is one of the essential ingredients in making a classic Italian dish like mostaccioli. The recipe calls for 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which serves several purposes in the final product.
The first and perhaps most obvious function of Parmesan cheese in this recipe is as a flavor enhancer. As it melts during baking, the rich, nutty, and slightly sharp taste of the Parmesan cheese permeates through each bite of the mostaccioli, adding depth and complexity to its overall flavor profile.
Grated Parmesan cheese also plays a crucial role in thickening the pasta sauce as it binds with other ingredients like butter, cream, or oil. This helps to achieve a smooth consistency without making the sauce too heavy or greasy.
Furthermore, Parmesan cheese acts as an emulsifier, ensuring that the different components of the mostaccioli recipe come together in harmony. Its presence helps stabilize the mixture and prevent ingredients like cream from separating during baking.
Lastly, the addition of 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese contributes to a satisfying crunch and texture contrast when mixed with other ingredients in the dish. The firmness of the cheese adds body and dimension to each bite, making it more interesting and engaging for the palate.
In essence, the 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is an integral component that elevates the flavor, texture, and overall appeal of this easy baked mostaccioli recipe.
Instructions and Tips
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
To achieve perfect baked mostaccioli, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully and use the right techniques. Here are some tips to help you create a delicious and visually appealing dish.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This temperature is ideal for baking pasta and will help cook it evenly throughout. Make sure to adjust your oven racks to accommodate your baking dish, allowing for even air circulation.
While the oven is preheating, prepare your mostaccioli according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling the pasta in salted water until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Be sure not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
To assemble the baked mostaccioli, start by coating the bottom of your baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce. This will prevent the pasta from sticking to the dish and create a flavorful base for the dish.
Next, add a layer of cooked mostaccioli on top of the marinara sauce. You can use a single layer or multiple layers depending on the size of your baking dish and the amount of pasta you have.
Follow the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese, sprinkling it evenly across the surface. The mozzarella will melt in the oven and create a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the dish.
Repeat the layering process one more time, starting with marinara sauce, followed by mostaccioli, and finally topped with mozzarella cheese. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent overcooking and promote even cooking.
Bake the mostaccioli in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches a golden-brown color on top. The melted cheese will be bubbly, and the pasta will be heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the top to brown.
Once the baked mostaccioli is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying baked mostaccioli!
Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
To make a delicious Easy Baked Mostaccioli, start by cooking mostaccioli pasta according to package directions.
This typically involves bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and then adding the pasta. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the brand and type of pasta you are using, but as a general rule, mostaccioli pasta should be cooked for 8-10 minutes or until it is al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, sauté some garlic and onions in olive oil until they are softened and fragrant. Then add your favorite tomato-based sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the pasta has finished cooking, drain it in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly. You want the pasta to be hot when you mix it with the sauce, but not so hot that it becomes difficult to handle.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli pasta, the sauce from the skillet, and some grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and the cheese is evenly distributed.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top it with additional Parmesan cheese and some breadcrumbs if desired. Then bake the mostaccioli in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the mostaccioli from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it hot, garnished with some chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
To create a mouthwatering Easy Baked Mostaccioli dish, it’s essential to start with the right ingredients and follow clear instructions. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking.
While waiting for the oven to heat up, prepare the sauce by combining crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. This step is crucial as it helps to caramelize the onions and adds a rich flavor to the dish. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, stirring occasionally. The cooking time will depend on the desired level of caramelization – some people prefer their onions lightly cooked while others like them dark brown.
After the onions are done, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This step is often overlooked but is essential to prevent the garlic from overpowering the dish. Cook until fragrant, then immediately proceed with adding the prepared sauce to the skillet.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir gently to combine it with the cooked onions and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until it thickens slightly. This step will help intensify the flavors of the dish.
Meanwhile, cook your mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside in a separate bowl.
To assemble the baked mostaccioli, combine cooked pasta, sauce mixture, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Transfer the prepared mixture to a baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly across the surface. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the top is golden brown. This will help create a crispy crust on top of the pasta.
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step allows the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together, making each bite more enjoyable.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Easy Baked Mostaccioli dish!
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
To create a delicious and easy baked Mostaccioli dish, follow these instructions and tips carefully.
Step 1: Cooking Ground Beef
Add one pound of ground beef to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, ensuring it doesn’t clump together. This will help distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.
When is the Ground Beef Done?
The ground beef is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also check if it’s browned and there are no longer any pink spots, indicating it’s fully cooked.
Adding Tomatoes
Once the ground beef is browned, add two cups of crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the ground beef, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
Other Ingredients and Tips
- Add one cup of grated mozzarella cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
- One teaspoon of dried basil adds a classic Italian flavor.
- A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Stir occasionally while adding other ingredients to prevent sticking or burning.
Finalizing the Mostaccioli
Mix in one cup of cooked Mostaccioli pasta with the ground beef and tomato mixture. Add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top for a golden-brown finish.
To ensure the most flavorful dish, don’t overmix or stir too much while combining ingredients. The flavors will meld together perfectly during baking.
Assembly and Baking
In a large baking dish, combine cooked mostaccioli pasta, meat sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese.
The art of assembly and baking a dish like mostaccioli can be both rewarding and intimidating, especially for those who are new to the world of cooking. However, with some guidance and practice, anyone can master the skill of assembling and baking this beloved Italian-American comfort food.
When it comes to mostaccioli, the pasta itself is a crucial component of the dish. Mostaccioli is a type of tubular pasta that is similar in shape to penne or ziti. It has a rough texture on the outside and a smooth interior, which makes it perfect for holding onto sauces.
The sauce is another key element of mostaccioli. A classic meat sauce made with ground beef or pork, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs is the most traditional choice. However, feel free to experiment with other options like vegetarian or vegan alternatives.
Now, let’s talk about the assembly process. In a large baking dish, combine cooked mostaccioli pasta, meat sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese. This will be the base of our baked mostaccioli.
Key Components of Baked Mostaccioli
- Pasta: Cooked mostaccioli pasta is a crucial component of baked mostaccioli. Choose a high-quality pasta that holds onto sauce well.
- Sauce: A classic meat sauce made with ground beef or pork, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs is the most traditional choice.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to baked mostaccioli. Feel free to use other types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar.
The next step is to top the pasta with additional ingredients such as shredded mozzarella cheese, sliced pepperoni or sausage, and chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the mostaccioli bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You may need to cover the dish with aluminum foil if the top starts to brown too quickly.
Assembly Tips
- Layering: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly so that every bite has a good balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
- Cheese distribution: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta before adding additional toppings like mozzarella or pepperoni.
- Folding: If using a sheet pan or rectangular baking dish, fold the edges of the parchment paper to prevent the ingredients from spilling over.
And that’s it! With these simple steps and assembly tips, you’re ready to create your own delicious baked mostaccioli. Whether you’re serving this comfort food at a family gathering or a special occasion, I’m sure everyone will love it!
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
When it comes to cooking pasta dishes like Easy Baked Mostaccioli, Assembly and baking are crucial steps that require attention to detail. The first step in assembling the dish involves combining cooked mostaccioli pasta, a sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella.
The ingredients should be mixed together gently until they’re well combined. It’s essential not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense or sticky texture in the finished dish. The mostaccioli pasta should still have some texture and firmness to it, which will help hold its shape during baking.
Next, transfer the assembled mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the pan. At this point, the top of the dish might look somewhat bare or exposed, but that’s where aluminum foil comes in handy.
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil is an excellent way to ensure even cooking and prevent overbrowning of the top layer. By doing so, you’ll allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken without worrying about the edges becoming too dark or burnt.
Once the dish is covered with foil, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. This initial baking time will give the cheese a chance to melt and the pasta to absorb all the flavors from the sauce.
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the top of the dish. You might notice that the edges have started to brown slightly, but don’t worry – this is a good sign! Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and golden.
Keep in mind that the browning time will depend on your oven’s performance and the size of your baking dish. Just remember to check the dish every few minutes to avoid overcooking the top layer. When you’re satisfied with the level of browning, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Easy Baked Mostaccioli is best served hot, garnished with some chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal when you want to impress your guests without too much fuss.
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