Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone together, you’ve come to the right place! This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage is one of those recipes that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. With layers of tender pasta, zesty Italian sausage, and gooey melted cheese, it’s hard not to fall in love with this hearty meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will be the star of your table.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, and everyone—kids and adults alike—will be coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s the perfect dish to make ahead of time for potlucks or gatherings. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready and let the magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Kids adore cheesy pasta dishes, making this one a surefire hit at dinner time.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, even novice cooks can master this recipe!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it in advance for quick lunches or stress-free entertaining.
• Rich flavors: The combination of savory sausage and rich tomato sauce creates a delightful taste experience.
• Perfectly cheesy: Who can resist bubbling mozzarella cheese? It adds that extra layer of comfort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this recipe is a breeze! These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sauce

• 1 lb Italian Sausage (removed from casings)
• 1 medium Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Dried Basil
• 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)

For the Pasta

• 1 lb Mostaccioli Pasta

For Topping

• 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, divided)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage alternatives and add more veggies instead!
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, increase the red pepper flakes for some added heat.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned. Breaking it apart as it cooks will help evenly distribute the flavor throughout your sauce. Once it’s nice and browned, remove any excess grease before adding in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onion becomes translucent; this step enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Create the Tomato Base

Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste into your skillet. Sprinkle in oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce simmers away, cook the mostaccioli according to package instructions until al dente. Remember not to overcook; they will continue cooking when baked! Drain them well before combining with your sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together your cooked mostaccioli and sauce mixture until all pasta is well-coated. This step ensures every bite will be packed with flavor!

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer half of your pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over this layer before adding the remaining pasta on top. Finish off by sprinkling the rest of mozzarella cheese along with grated Parmesan cheese over everything. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Enjoy!

After baking, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley as a lovely finishing touch before serving! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage

Making cheesy baked mostaccioli with sausage is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic can enhance the flavor profile of your sauce significantly, making each bite more aromatic and delicious.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the mostaccioli just until al dente ensures that it holds its shape during baking, providing a perfect texture in contrast to the creamy sauce.

• Layer the Cheese: For a truly cheesy experience, consider layering mozzarella cheese between the pasta mixture instead of just on top. This creates gooey pockets of cheese throughout.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the baked mostaccioli to rest for about 10 minutes before serving helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve while keeping all the flavors intact.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding more red pepper flakes or fresh herbs can customize the dish to your liking.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage

When it comes to serving cheesy baked mostaccioli, presentation is key! This dish not only tastes good but also looks fantastic when garnished properly. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to spice up their portions as they prefer.
• Grated Parmesan: Serving extra grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra cheesy dimension and enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and complements the cheesy pasta beautifully.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the baked mostaccioli, making for a well-rounded meal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that adds color and texture, making your dinner plate visually appealing while being healthy.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings warmth and additional flavors that pair wonderfully with this hearty dish.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your cheesy baked mostaccioli with sausage! Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing for quick and easy dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover mostaccioli in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil to retain moisture, reheating for about 20-25 minutes or until hot all the way through.
• For best results, add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top during reheating to get that gooey texture back!

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious dish? Here are some common queries:

Can I use different types of pasta for cheesy baked mostaccioli with sausage?

Absolutely! While mostaccioli is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I make cheesy baked mostaccioli with sausage vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!

Can I prepare cheesy baked mostaccioli with sausage in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli with Sausage as much as I do! It’s a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!