Mostaccioli-Broccoli Bake
Mostaccioli-Broccoli Bake is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines tender broccoli with the delightful texture of mostaccioli or penne. This comforting casserole is perfect for families and gatherings, delivering a hearty, flavorful meal with a hint of garlic and thyme that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook mostaccioli according to package directions; drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a medium saucepan, melt margarine.
- Stir in flour until blended.
- Add milk; cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, garlic powder, thyme, and nutmeg.
- Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine mostaccioli, cheese sauce, and broccoli.
- Spoon into a 12 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle Swiss cheese over the top.
- Bake at 375° for 10 to 15 minutes until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, try using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella works well in place of Swiss. Adding cooked chicken or turkey can enhance the dish for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, ensure all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This Mostaccioli-Broccoli Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful contrast, serve with a light Italian Vegetable Dip as an appetizer. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish nicely. For more delicious options, explore other vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, though the texture may differ slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mostaccioli-Broccoli Bake contains roughly 1510 calories, with 32g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), iron (89% of the Daily Value), and calcium (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1713mg per serving (74% 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 use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish. This will help avoid excess moisture, which can make the bake watery.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Mostaccioli-Broccoli Bake gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. Just ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
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).