Baked Mostaccioli Pasta

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the mostaccioli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon.

4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion is softened and translucent.

5. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

6. Add the cooked mostaccioli pasta to the skillet with the meat and sauce mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.

7. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.

8. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta layer.

9. Add the remaining pasta on top of the cheese layer and spread it out evenly.

10. Top with the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese and then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

12. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

13. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

14. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.