Baked Mostaccioli is a beloved pasta dish that originates from Italy but has been adopted and adapted by American kitchens over the years

3. Preheat the Oven

While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or nonstick spray.

4. Assemble the Baked Mostaccioli

1. Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking.
2. Add half of the cooked pasta, spreading it evenly.
3. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the pasta.
4. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce. Add dollops of ricotta if using.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses. For a golden top, finish with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Optional: Add pepperoni slices or vegetables between layers for extra flavor and texture.

5. Bake the Mostaccioli

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

6. Rest and Serve

Allow the Baked Mostaccioli to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and added flavor.

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Mostaccioli

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the casserole.
• Layer evenly: Distribute sauce and cheese evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Mix cheeses: Using a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta creates creamy, gooey layers with a rich flavor.
• Make ahead: Baked Mostaccioli can be assembled a day in advance and baked just before serving—perfect for busy weeknights.

Baked Mostaccioli is more than just a pasta dish—it’s comfort food that brings people together. Its hearty layers of pasta, meat, sauce, and cheese make it a timeless recipe for family dinners and gatherings. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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