Baked Mostaccioli Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Food Favorite

If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing pasta dish, look no further than Baked Mostaccioli Casserole. This comforting classic brings together tender pasta, a rich meat sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese—all baked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or prepping for the week ahead, this baked pasta casserole delivers every time.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes baked mostaccioli so special, how to prepare it from scratch, tips for customization, and answers to frequently asked questions. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

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What Is Mostaccioli?

Mostaccioli is a tubular pasta similar to penne but with a smooth surface instead of ridges. It’s a staple in many Italian-American dishes, particularly in baked casseroles, because it holds sauce beautifully and bakes evenly.

The word “mostaccioli” actually means “little mustaches” in Italian—a nod to the pasta’s mustache-like shape. Whether you’re using regular mostaccioli or the larger mostaccioli rigati, it’s perfect for soaking up flavorful sauces in casseroles like this one.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Mostaccioli Casserole

• Cheesy and delicious – Melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create irresistible gooey layers.
• Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike can’t resist a cheesy pasta bake.
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble in advance and bake when needed.
• Budget-conscious – Simple ingredients, maximum flavor.
• Freezer-friendly – Perfect for meal prep or gifting to a friend in need.

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Ingredients for Baked Mostaccioli

Here’s everything you’ll need for a classic version:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb (450g) mostaccioli pasta, cooked al dente
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or homemade spaghetti sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional, for ricotta mixture)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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How to Make Baked Mostaccioli Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the mostaccioli in salted water until just al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

🔥 Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven!

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
• Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes for rich flavor.

Step 3: Mix Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg (optional for creaminess), and a bit of Parmesan. This creates a creamy layer between the pasta and sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large baking dish (9×13 inch), spread a layer of sauce on the bottom.
• Add half the cooked pasta, then spoon dollops of ricotta mixture over it.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan.
• Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses.

Step 5: Bake It!

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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Baked Mostaccioli Casserole Variations

Looking to make this recipe your own? Here are some tasty twists:

1. Vegetarian Version

Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. A spinach and ricotta layer is also a fantastic meat-free alternative.

2. Spicy Sausage Style

Swap ground beef for spicy Italian sausage or chorizo to give the casserole a bold kick.

3. Three-Cheese Overload

Amp up the cheesy goodness with a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and asiago.

4. Creamy Alfredo Version

Use a blend of Alfredo sauce and marinara for a creamy pink sauce twist.

5. Make It Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free mostaccioli pasta and ensure your sauces are certified gluten-free.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezer: Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen (add about 20 extra minutes covered).

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to eat.

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What to Serve with Baked Mostaccioli

This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Green salad with Italian dressing
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
• A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use penne or ziti instead of mostaccioli?

Absolutely! Mostaccioli, penne, and ziti are similar tube-shaped pastas and work interchangeably in baked recipes.

Is ricotta cheese necessary?

Not at all. If you prefer, you can skip the ricotta or substitute with cottage cheese or even a creamy béchamel sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Be sure to cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking. Also, don’t overcook the pasta initially—it helps keep the casserole moist.

Can I add spinach to this recipe?

Definitely! Mix fresh or thawed frozen spinach into the cheese layer or meat sauce for a nutritious twist.

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Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Pasta Comfort Dish

Baked Mostaccioli Casserole is everything a great pasta bake should be—cheesy, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never goes out of style and is perfect for any night of the week.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking to meal prep with something satisfying and delicious, this baked pasta dish is a winner every single time.

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