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This comforting pasta dish is perfect for those times when you’re craving something rich and satisfying that the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare and features plenty of gooey cheese, a flavorful sauce, and tender pasta. Just pop it in the oven, let the cheese get nice and bubbly, and enjoy a homemade meal that’ll warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mostaccioli (or penne) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, crumbled (mild or hot, your preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the mostaccioli until just shy of al dente—typically about one minute less than the package instructions suggest. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Meanwhile, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled sausage and chopped onion, then cook until the sausage is browned and the onion has softened. Stir in the garlic, letting it cook for about a minute. Next, pour in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a little extra kick. Let this hearty sauce simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sauce mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Stir gently to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan. Slide the dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheeses are bubbling and lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help all the flavors settle and make it easier to dish out.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser—perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply an easy weeknight dinner. You can swap in turkey sausage for a lighter option or use a vegetable-based crumble to keep it vegetarian. The mix of cheeses delivers wonderful creaminess, and you can adjust seasonings to suit your preferences. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize to make your own, all while savoring that classic comfort-food taste.
