Mostaccioli Sauce
A hearty, flavorful pasta dish featuring savory ground beef and a rich mushroom-onion tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Drain excess grease from the beef mixture.
- Add the jar of Ragu spaghetti sauce with mushroom and onions, garlic salt, black pepper, oregano, and sugar to the beef and onions.
- Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Pour the sauce over cooked noodles and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste. You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the dish as well. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a bit longer. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian recipes that include garlic bread on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the mostaccioli sauce over your favorite noodles, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad complements the dish well. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a Maloogy or a Stromboi Sandwich. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mostaccioli Sauce contains roughly 681 calories, with 22g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (193% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (143% of the Daily Value), and calcium (111% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 476mg per serving (21% 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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. It actually improves in flavor after sitting for a day. Just cool it completely before refrigerating. Reheat it on the stove and serve over freshly cooked noodles for a quick meal.
What type of noodles work best for this sauce?
Mostaccioli sauce pairs well with various types of pasta, but penne or rigatoni are particularly good choices as they hold the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand, including whole wheat or gluten-free options.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the sauce. Simply sauté the vegetables with the onions before adding the ground beef for a delicious twist.
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).