Description
This classic Mostaccioli recipe features tender pasta baked in a rich Italian sausage and marinara sauce, layered with a creamy ricotta and parmesan mixture, then topped with melted mozzarella for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 pound uncooked mostaccioli pasta
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For Serving (Optional)
- Fresh basil and/or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third to ensure even baking and browning of the cheese topping.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Stir until smooth and creamy; set aside for layering.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook it for 2 minutes less than the package instructions to keep it firm. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Cook the Sausage and Onion: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage and chopped onion for about 10 minutes, breaking the meat apart until it’s browned and fully cooked.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir the minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the skillet and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce and Meat: Add the sausage mixture and the marinara sauce to the pot with the cooked pasta. Toss well using tongs or two large spoons until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Layer the Dish: Spread half of the pasta-sauce mixture evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Add Cheese Layer: Dollop and spread the prepared ricotta cheese mixture over the first pasta layer.
- Top with Remaining Pasta and Cheese: Add the remaining pasta-sauce mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake and Broil: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Then broil for a few minutes, watching carefully until the mozzarella cheese is bubbly and browned.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Cooking the pasta slightly under al dente keeps it from overcooking during baking.
- Using Italian sausage adds a robust flavor but you can substitute with ground beef or turkey if preferred.
- Broiling at the end gives the cheese a beautiful golden finish, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- You can prepare this dish a day ahead by assembling it and refrigerating before baking.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright finishing touch but are optional.
