Are you ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of mostaccioli? This pasta dish, featuring tubular noodles coated in a rich and savory sauce, is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers. Let’s dive into the delicious world of mostaccioli!
Ingredients
– 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 55g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the mostaccioli according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
6. Drain excess fat from the meat, if necessary.
7. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in basil and oregano.
8. Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
9. Drain the mostaccioli and mix it into the sauce until well coated.
10. Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this mostaccioli recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or by adding vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Mostaccioli pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a light Italian white wine. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat. Mostaccioli can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid burning garlic by adding it later in the sauté process.
– Use fresh herbs for better flavor if available.
– Be cautious with salt; taste before adding more.
– Let the sauce simmer enough to develop flavors.
Helpful Tips
– For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
– Experiment with different cheeses, like Parmesan or gouda, for variety.
– Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more vegetables.
– Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute mostaccioli with penne, ziti, or any tubular pasta you prefer.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy sausage for an extra kick.
Is mostaccioli gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mostaccioli ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
What are some good side dishes?
A Caesar salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic knots make excellent sides.
Conclusion
This mostaccioli recipe is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. With its hearty sauce and cheesy topping, it’s perfect for any gathering. Enjoy every bite and share the love with family and friends!
Mostaccioli Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the mostaccioli according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the meat, if necessary.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in basil and oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain the mostaccioli and mix it into the sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
