Mostaccioli Bake
A hearty baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; add chopped green pepper and onion. Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, water, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly.
- In a 2-quart casserole, layer half of the cooked mostaccioli noodles, meat sauce, and sliced Velveeta cheese. Repeat layers.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the Velveeta cheese with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked mostaccioli can speed up the prep process. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference, especially if you enjoy Italian recipes with a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Mostaccioli Bake pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a healthy addition. For a heartier option, consider serving with a side of Spiced And Saucy Shell Dinner. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mostaccioli Bake contains roughly 212 calories, with 9g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), iron (76% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% 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 Mostaccioli Bake up to a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped, or substitute with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the liquid content slightly, as fresh tomatoes may have more moisture. Alternatively, try using a jar of marinara sauce for a different flavor.
Is it possible to freeze the Mostaccioli Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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).