Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta

 

Quick Overview

If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting dish, look no further than oven-baked mostaccioli con ricotta. This delightful Italian recipe combines tender pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and savory marinara sauce to create a meal that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress both friends and family alike. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious oven-baked mostaccioli that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredient Breakdown

Mostaccioli Pasta

To start your oven-baked mostaccioli con ricotta, you’ll need 12 ounces of mostaccioli pasta. This tube-shaped pasta holds sauce well and gives the dish a unique texture.

Ricotta Cheese

Use 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese for creaminess. It adds a rich flavor and smooth texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Marinara Sauce

A 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce brings everything together. Choose your favorite brand or make homemade sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Mozzarella Cheese

For topping, have 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese ready. It creates a deliciously bubbly and golden crust that enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

You’ll need ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top. This adds a sharp flavor that balances the creaminess of the ricotta.

Fresh Basil

Add fresh basil leaves for garnish. A handful will provide a fragrant finish and elevate the presentation of your oven-baked mostaccioli.

Step By Step Recipe: Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta

Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you place your assembled mostaccioli in the oven, it bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust on top.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to boil and add your 12 ounces of mostaccioli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce mixture.

Prepare Sauce Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese with half of your 24-ounce jar of marinara sauce. Stir until well blended. The mixture should be creamy but not too runny. This step ensures that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once your pasta is drained and slightly cooled, mix it into your ricotta-sauce blend thoroughly until all pieces are coated evenly. This helps distribute flavors throughout your dish before baking it in the oven.

Assemble Your Dish

In a greased baking dish (around 9×13 inches), spread half of the remaining marinara sauce at the bottom. Layer half of your creamy pasta mixture over it, then sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this process with another layer of sauce followed by pasta and mozzarella.

Top with Cheeses

Finally, sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over everything along with an additional cup of shredded mozzarella on top. This creates an irresistible cheesy crust once baked in the oven—who could resist such deliciousness?

Bake in Oven

Place your assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.

Let It Rest

After baking is complete, remove your dish from the oven and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps set everything together so each slice holds its shape beautifully when plated.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serve Hot

Serve your oven-baked mostaccioli con ricotta hot from the oven for maximum flavor impact! Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete your meal experience beautifully.

Leftover Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in individual servings using either microwave or conventional oven until warmed through again—this dish tastes great even as leftovers!

Freezing Options

For longer-term storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. Make sure to label them clearly so you remember what’s inside! When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating properly.

By following these steps closely while preparing this delightful recipe at home yourself will surely impress anyone who tries it! Enjoy making this cozy comfort food today!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta is overcooking the pasta. Always cook the mostaccioli until al dente before baking. This ensures that the pasta retains its shape and texture after it is baked with the sauce and cheese. If you cook it too long, it can become mushy and unappetizing.

Another mistake is not letting the ricotta mixture sit long enough to blend flavors. Allowing the ricotta, herbs, and spices to marry for at least 30 minutes enhances the taste of your dish significantly. Rushing this step can lead to a bland final product that doesn’t impress your guests.

Using low-quality ingredients is also a frequent pitfall. Choosing fresh ingredients, particularly in cheese and herbs, greatly affects the flavor of Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta. Avoid pre-packaged cheeses or dried herbs whenever possible, as they may lack the vibrant taste needed for this dish.

Lastly, skipping the layering technique can diminish the overall appeal of your dish. When preparing Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta, layer your pasta with sauce and cheese properly. Failing to do this may result in uneven distribution of flavors, leading to an unsatisfactory eating experience.

Tips and tricks

To achieve the best results with Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta, consider preheating your oven effectively. Set it to 375°F (190°C) before you start assembling your dish. This allows for even cooking once you place it in the oven, ensuring a bubbly top and perfectly melted cheese. An adequately preheated oven will enhance caramelization on top, adding an appealing golden finish.

Incorporate plenty of fresh herbs into your ricotta mixture for added flavor depth. Basil, parsley, or even oregano can elevate your dish significantly. Finely chop these herbs and mix them into the ricotta along with salt and pepper before layering them with pasta. This simple addition makes a huge difference in taste while keeping everything light.

Don’t forget about texture! To achieve a delightful contrast, consider adding some crunch by using breadcrumbs on top of your Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta. Mix breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle them over your assembled dish before baking. This creates a crunchy topping that complements the creamy layers beneath, making each bite enjoyable.

Lastly, allow your dish to rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period lets flavors meld together while making it easier to serve without losing shape. Cutting into hot pasta can cause it to fall apart; waiting ensures cleaner slices that look beautiful on a plate.

Suggestions for Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta

Consider adding vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor in your Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta. Sauté them lightly before mixing them into your ricotta or layering them between pasta layers. This addition not only boosts health benefits but also provides color and freshness to the dish.

Pairing this recipe with garlic bread can create an excellent dining experience. The warm, buttery taste of garlic bread complements the creamy richness of baked mostaccioli beautifully. You can easily prepare homemade garlic bread by spreading butter mixed with minced garlic on slices of baguette or French bread before baking until golden brown.

Serving a light salad alongside can also enhance your meal’s overall feel. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness that balances out the richness of Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta effectively. The peppery arugula contrasts nicely with cheesy layers and offers a refreshing crunch.

Finally, consider wine pairings when serving this dish for added enjoyment during dinner parties or family gatherings. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot would pair wonderfully with rich flavors while still allowing other tastes to shine through without overpowering them.

FAQs

What is Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta?

Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta is a comforting Italian pasta dish featuring tubular pasta baked in layers with ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various seasonings. It combines creamy textures with robust flavors to create a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

How long does it take to bake Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta?

Typically, baking this dish takes around 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Ensure you monitor closely; once you see bubbling cheese on top and slightly browned edges, it’s time to take it out of the oven!

Can I make Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by assembling all components but delaying baking until you’re ready to serve. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before placing it directly into a preheated oven when you’re ready.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While ricotta is essential for creaminess in Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta, combining it with mozzarella provides stretchiness during baking while enhancing flavor profiles throughout each bite! Optional parmesan sprinkled on top adds further depth if desired.

Can I customize my sauce choice?

Absolutely! While marinara sauce is traditional for this recipe, feel free to experiment with different sauces like Alfredo or pesto if you want unique flavor twists that suit your preferences better—just ensure they complement all other ingredients well!

Is there a vegetarian version available?

Yes! The standard recipe already caters well towards vegetarians; however, if you’d like additional protein without meat products included within these layers—consider adding lentils or chickpeas as alternatives that fit seamlessly alongside rich cheeses!

Summary

In summary, creating delicious Oven-baked Mostaccioli con Ricotta involves careful attention to detail throughout preparation stages—such as choosing quality ingredients and layering techniques—to prevent common pitfalls like overcooked pasta or bland flavors from occurring! Incorporating helpful tips regarding herb usage alongside crunchy toppings elevates overall enjoyment while allowing ample room for customization; remember always let dishes rest post-cooking too!

 

Print