Mostaccioli 'Al Fredo
Creamy and cheesy Mostaccioli 'Al Fredo' features rich Parmesan and fresh parsley, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings craving authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare Creamettes mostaccioli according to package directions; drain.
- In a large pan, heat heavy cream and margarine on low heat.
- Do not let the mixture boil.
- Add cooked mostaccioli, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can replace parsley for a different taste. Make sure not to overheat the cream mixture, as it can separate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mostaccioli 'Al Fredo alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cream Of Tomato Soup With Parmesan Cheese, enhancing the comforting flavors. Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan cheese for a fresh presentation. This dish is great for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can create uneven temperatures and affect texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mostaccioli 'Al Fredo contains roughly 178 calories, with 11g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 mostaccioli and sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers and combine just before serving. This helps maintain the pasta's texture. Reheat gently, adding a bit more cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are great alternatives that will still provide a similar flavor profile. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Mostaccioli 'Al Fredo is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat. However, always check the brand of pasta you are using to ensure it does not contain eggs if you are looking for a strict vegetarian option.
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).