Are you looking for a delicious and versatile pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than mostaccioli, a type of tubular pasta that can be paired with a wide range of sauces to suit your taste. From classic meat-based dishes to creamy vegetarian options, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouthwatering mostaccioli recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can prepare mostaccioli, from comfort food classics like baked mostaccioli with meat sauce to more innovative creations like pesto mostaccioli with sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and satisfying or light and refreshing, our recipes are sure to inspire your next pasta dish.
So let’s get started! From now until the end of this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 mostaccioli recipes, each one showcasing a unique twist on this beloved pasta shape. Grab your apron, grab your fork, and let’s dive in!
Classic Baked Mostaccioli with Meat Sauce
A comforting, satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of rich meat sauce and creamy baked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces mostaccioli pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a large mixing bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Mostaccioli
A rich and flavorful pasta dish that combines the comfort of garlic and parmesan with the creaminess of a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz Mostaccioli pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Mostaccioli
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy sausage, roasted peppers, and tangy tomato sauce with mostaccioli noodles for a flavorful and filling meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 ounces mostaccioli noodles
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook mostaccioli noodles according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked sausage mixture with cooked noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable-Packed Mostaccioli Primavera
Spring has arrived, and so does the flavor! This colorful primavera dish is a perfect celebration of the season’s bounty, packed with an array of vibrant vegetables, pasta, and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, snow peas, and cherry tomatoes; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in vegetable broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Three-Cheese Mostaccioli Bake
A creamy, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, marinara sauce, and dried oregano. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the sauce mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
7. Add the pasta mixture to the dish, followed by the three-cheese blend. Sprinkle evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mostaccioli with Homemade Marinara Sauce
This comforting pasta dish combines al dente mostaccioli with a rich and tangy homemade marinara sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade, see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Marinara Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add homemade marinara sauce and stir to combine with garlic. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and reserved pasta water. Toss to coat, adding Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Mostaccioli and Beef Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender beef, creamy tomato sauce, and al dente mostaccioli pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, hands-off dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup mostaccioli pasta
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the mostaccioli pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mostaccioli Alfredo with Grilled Chicken
This classic Italian-American dish gets a protein-packed boost from grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Serve it up for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Serve with pasta and sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Mostaccioli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish gets a burst of flavor from the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of creamy pesto sauce, al dente pasta, and chewy sun-dried tomatoes is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and pesto mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mostaccioli Carbonara with Pancetta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy Mostaccioli Carbonara, featuring the smoky flavor of pancetta. This classic Italian recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, showcasing the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
5. Add cooked mostaccioli pasta to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
6. Stir in crispy pancetta and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Mostaccioli with Spinach and Mushrooms
A twist on the classic pasta dish, this recipe combines mostaccioli pasta, mushrooms, spinach, and cheese for a creamy, savory meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine with mushroom mixture.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mostaccioli with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
Mostaccioli, a type of penne pasta, is paired with a spicy and tangy arrabbiata sauce to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. This recipe combines the comfort of homemade pasta with the bold flavors of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine arrabbiata sauce and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
3. Combine cooked pasta, sauce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mostaccioli with Ricotta and Mozzarella
This classic Italian-American comfort dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring tender pasta, creamy ricotta sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. With just a few simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mostaccioli with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and olive oil with the classic Italian pasta dish, mostaccioli. The result is a hearty and aromatic pasta that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, exposing the inside. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the garlic for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
4. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic and olive oil mixture.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Mostaccioli in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Mostaccioli is a classic Italian dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the brightness of fresh basil and the richness of cream. This recipe brings together the flavors of Italy in a simple, yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups creamy tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the creamy tomato sauce and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add the butter and chopped basil leaves to the sauce. Stir until the butter has melted and the basil is evenly distributed.
4. Add the cooked mostaccioli pasta to the sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mostaccioli with Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty pasta dish is a flavorful twist on traditional sausage and peppers, featuring mostaccioli shells filled with spicy Italian sausage, roasted peppers, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add sliced peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until peppers are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Toss until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mostaccioli with Fresh Herb Pesto
Savor the flavors of Italy with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring a tangy and aromatic fresh herb pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) mostaccioli pasta
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly made fresh herb pesto (see below)
– 1 cup (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh Herb Pesto:
– 1 cup (20g) fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the fresh herb pesto, cherry tomatoes, and reserved pasta cooking water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mostaccioli with Roasted Vegetables and Goat Cheese
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of roasted vegetables and creamy goat cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mostaccioli in a Rich Meatball Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty mostaccioli pasta dish smothered in a rich meatball sauce, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add baked meatballs to the saucepan and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve mostaccioli pasta with rich meatball sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mostaccioli with Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and aromatic Mostaccioli dish, featuring succulent lemon garlic shrimp. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz mostaccioli pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
3. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with shrimp mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in 20 mouth-watering Mostaccioli recipes perfect for any occasion! From classic baked dishes to creamy sauces and bold flavors, these innovative ideas will elevate your pasta game. Discover how to make a variety of delicious Mostaccioli creations, including meaty masterpieces, veggie-packed primaveras, and cheesy bakes. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something more adventurous, this article has got you covered with its extensive collection of Mostaccioli recipes that are sure to impress.
