Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli
Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli is a hearty comfort dish combining seasoned ground beef and pork sausage with vegetables, tomato soup, and melted Velveeta cheese. Baked until bubbly, it's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and gooey cheese in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and pork sausage thoroughly.
- Chop the onion, green pepper, and celery.
- Add the chopped vegetables and mushrooms to the cooked meat.
- Stir in the tomato soup and cook for a few minutes.
- Bake the mixture at 325°F for 15 minutes.
- Add the Velveeta cheese to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Cook the mostaccioli noodles separately until al dente.
- Add the cooked noodles to the cheese and meat mixture.
- Mix well and transfer to a large casserole dish.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese along with the Velveeta. If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage. Adding spinach or kale can also boost the nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a hearty family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy baked mostaccioli with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Beans With Ground Beef, adding a delightful contrast in flavors. For a refreshing touch, consider a light vinaigrette dressing on the salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the mostaccioli in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli contains roughly 657 calories, with 33g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can use a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just ensure to blend them well to create a smooth cheese sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even some frozen peas for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).