Scale

12 oz mostaccioli pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Optional add-ins:

Cooked sausage

Ricotta cheese

Red pepper flakes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Cook mostaccioli according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté onion until softened.

4. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

5. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

7. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

8. Combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce.

9. Transfer half of the mixture to the baking dish and sprinkle with mozzarella.

10. Add remaining pasta and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.

11. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

12. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Use part-skim mozzarella for less grease.

• Great make-ahead and freezer-friendly meal.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Keywords: baked mostaccioli, cheesy baked pasta, easy italian dinner