If you're on the hunt for some mouth-watering mostaccioli recipes, you're in for a treat. Mostaccioli is like pasta's cooler cousin, and it can be jazzed up in so many ways. Whether you're craving something classic, creamy, or loaded with veggies, there's a recipe that'll tickle your taste buds. Get ready to impress your friends and family, because I'm about to share some delicious ideas that'll make your next meal unforgettable!
Classic Baked Mostaccioli
Classic Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a family favorite. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, as it can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, Classic Baked Mostaccioli isn't only delicious but also an excellent way to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot, cook the mostaccioli according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, add the chopped onion, and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned, then drain excess fat. Mix in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked mostaccioli with the meat sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce.
You can also substitute different types of cheese, such as ricotta for a creamier texture or provolone for a sharper taste.
To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the mostaccioli in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply adjust the cooking time, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Creamy Alfredo Mostaccioli

Creamy Alfredo Mostaccioli is a comforting and delicious pasta dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The rich and creamy Alfredo sauce coats the mostaccioli pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that's both hearty and flavorful. This recipe is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests with its creamy texture and savory taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the mostaccioli in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, then gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Once the pasta is drained, add it to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly with the Alfredo sauce. If desired, mix in cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated cheese, as it melts better and has a richer taste.
You can also customize your creamy Alfredo mostaccioli by incorporating vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy this dish fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Hearty Meat Sauce Mostaccioli
Hearty Meat Sauce Mostaccioli is a comforting and filling dish that combines the rich flavors of a savory meat sauce with the delightful texture of mostaccioli pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it's hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.
The combination of ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a sauce that's both flavorful and satisfying, while the pasta adds a delightful chewiness that makes each bite enjoyable.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the mostaccioli according to package instructions until al dente.
In a separate large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat before stirring in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Finally, combine the cooked mostaccioli with the meat sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated, and serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Extra Tips: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.
You can also mix in some vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, for added nutrition. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the meat sauce and pasta separately and then combine them just before serving.
Leftovers can be easily stored in the fridge and reheated, making this a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights!
Veggie-Packed Mostaccioli

Veggie-Packed Mostaccioli is a delightful and wholesome dish that satisfies both the palate and the body. This recipe combines the hearty goodness of mostaccioli pasta with a colorful array of vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year.
It's not only easy to prepare but also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition. Whether you're serving it as a main dish or a side, this veggie-packed delight is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the mostaccioli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
Then, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional minute.
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Finally, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and cover for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
Extra Tips:
For an added boost of flavor, consider roasting the vegetables beforehand to improve their natural sweetness.
You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli or carrots, and feel free to substitute the mozzarella with your favorite cheese for a different taste.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and this dish also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!
Spicy Italian Sausage Mostaccioli
Spicy Italian Sausage Mostaccioli is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings a delightful kick to your dinner table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this pasta dish features tender mostaccioli noodles enveloped in a rich, zesty sauce made with spicy Italian sausage, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. The combination of the spicy sausage and creamy cheese creates a comforting meal that's sure to please anyone who loves a little heat in their pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 12 ounces mostaccioli pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Spicy Italian Sausage Mostaccioli, begin by cooking the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion, cooking until translucent. Add the minced garlic and spicy Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon and cooking until browned.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Combine the cooked mostaccioli with the sausage sauce, then fold in the ricotta cheese until well mixed.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
When making Spicy Italian Sausage Mostaccioli, feel free to customize the heat level by choosing mild or hot sausage based on your preference.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the sausage mixture. Additionally, if you're preparing this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven straight from the fridge. Enjoy garnishing with fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness!