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Simple Cheesy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

A comforting, ultra-cheesy baked pasta dish made with tender mostaccioli, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for easy family dinners or potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 –8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the mostaccioli pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and toss with olive oil.
  4. In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until well coated.
  6. Lightly grease a baking dish.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the dish.
  8. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  9. Add the remaining pasta, then top with the remaining cheeses.
  10. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  11. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra golden and crispy cheese topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely.