Velveeta Mostaccioli
Creamy Velveeta Mostaccioli features cheesy pasta layered with seasoned meat sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook hamburger, spaghetti sauce, tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper until heated through.
- While sauce simmers, cook and drain the mostaccioli noodles.
- In a greased large baking dish, spread a layer of cooked noodles.
- Add half of the spaghetti sauce over the noodles.
- Place 3 to 4 slices of Velveeta cheese on top of the sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, spaghetti sauce, and cheese, with cheese under the sauce this time.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta or cottage cheese between the layers. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of hamburger. You can also substitute the Velveeta with any melty cheese like mozzarella or cheddar, though the flavor will change. Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Velveeta Mostaccioli with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Beans(Serves 40 People) for a hearty gathering. For a refreshing touch, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette works well 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, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Velveeta Mostaccioli contains roughly 293 calories, with 14g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1901mg per serving (83% 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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mostaccioli is traditional, you can substitute it with penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just ensure the cooking time aligns with the pasta type to achieve the perfect texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the hamburger and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles. The sauce will still provide plenty of flavor, making it delicious without the meat.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
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).