Dinner

Healthy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe

Name: Healthy Baked Mostaccioli Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 oz mostaccioli pasta; 4–5 cups marinara sauce; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 large green bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

ByLily Cross February 11, 2026February 11, 2026

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Introduction

This Healthy Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish perfect for cozy dinners. Packed with Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a wholesome meal the whole family will enjoy.

A white dish filled with baked penne pasta covered in a thick layer of melted light golden cheese with small green herbs sprinkled on top. The pasta underneath shows a mix of orange and red sauce with bits of minced meat visible. The cheese layer looks bubbly and slightly browned in places, with a creamy texture. The background features a glass of red wine and a white bowl with round yellow chips, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz mostaccioli pasta
1 lb Italian sausage
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4–5 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the mostaccioli pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease and transfer the sausage to a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped green bell pepper and onion until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, sausage, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix gently until well combined.
Step 6: Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 8: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, use turkey Italian sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Add chopped mushrooms or spinach with the vegetables for extra nutrients.
Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content while still getting delicious melted cheese.
If you prefer more sauce, add a little extra marinara before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions until hot, stirring halfway.

How to Serve

A white baking dish filled with baked penne pasta, layered with a thick, rich tomato sauce mixed with ground meat, topped with melted, slightly browned cheese and sprinkled with small green herbs. The pasta is a warm orange color, and the cheese on top has a stretchy, gooey texture with golden spots from baking. In the background, there is a glass of red wine and a bowl with bread, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day before baking. Cover it and keep it refrigerated, then bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Can I use a different pasta instead of mostaccioli?

Absolutely! Penne, ziti, or rigatoni work well as substitutes since they hold sauce and cheese nicely.

Lily Cross