Ingredients:
1 lb mostaccioli (or penne) pasta
1 lb Italian sausage (or ground beef)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups marinara sauce
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce and ricotta cheese. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 520 kcal per serving
