Bring the comforting flavors of Italy to your dinner table with this Baked Mostaccioli recipe! This classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, all baked to perfection.
Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the mostaccioli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
Add Tomatoes. Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Combine Pasta and Sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
Layer the Cheese. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake the Mostaccioli. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Enjoy. Let the baked mostaccioli cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.