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delicious family dinner recipe

Mostaccioli

This hearty Italian-American casserole combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying family meal. Layers of mostaccioli noodles soak up the rich tomato sauce while the cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping that will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 pound mostaccioli noodles or penne/ziti
  • 1/2 pound ground sirloin
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 15 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 pound reduced-fat American cheese sliced

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Casserole dish
  • Pot for pasta

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ground sirloin until the meat is browned and onions are tender.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the skillet. Stir to combine thoroughly.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, then add the bay leaf. Allow the sauce to simmer while preparing the pasta.
  4. Cook the mostaccioli noodles according to package directions, keeping them al dente as they will continue cooking in the oven.
  5. Cut the American cheese into small slices for even melting.
  6. In a casserole dish, create alternating layers of cooked noodles, meat sauce, and cheese slices.
  7. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, until heated through and the cheese has melted completely.

Notes

For a spicier version, substitute Italian sausage for the ground sirloin or add red pepper flakes to taste. Vegetarians can replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious alternative. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and actually taste even better as the flavors continue to develop. For best results when reheating, add a splash of water before microwaving to keep the pasta moist.