Easy Mostaccioli Recipe with Jar Sauce
Easy Mostaccioli with Jar Sauce: Easy Mostaccioli Recipe With Jar Sauce
Source: tasteofhome.com
Easy mostaccioli recipe with jar sauce – This recipe offers a delightful balance of convenience and deliciousness, perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting pasta dish without the fuss of making sauce from scratch. Using jarred sauce significantly reduces prep time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade-tasting meal in a fraction of the time.
The time-saving benefit of using pre-made sauce is undeniable. It eliminates the need for chopping vegetables, simmering sauces, and carefully balancing flavors, streamlining the cooking process considerably. This recipe focuses on achieving perfectly cooked mostaccioli and a vibrant, flavorful sauce combination.
The ingredients needed are simple and readily available: mostaccioli pasta, your favorite jarred pasta sauce, and optional additions like cheese, herbs, or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.
Ingredient Selection and Preparation
Choosing the right jarred sauce and pasta is key to a successful dish. High-quality jarred sauces, whether marinara, meat, or a more unique variety, will elevate the final product. Look for sauces with minimal added sugars and preservatives. For the pasta, select a good quality brand of mostaccioli; its ridged shape perfectly holds the sauce.
If adding fresh vegetables, chop them to a size that will cook evenly with the pasta. For example, diced bell peppers or finely chopped onions will blend well. Pre-grated cheese can save you time as well.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mostaccioli Pasta | 1 pound |
| Jarred Pasta Sauce (Marinara, Meat, or other) | 24-28 ounces |
| Optional: Grated Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Optional: Fresh Basil | 1/4 cup, chopped |
Cooking Steps and Methods
This section Artikels the simple steps to prepare this easy mostaccioli dish. The focus is on achieving perfectly al dente pasta and a well-combined sauce. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta and stovetop.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the mostaccioli and cook according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, gently heat the jarred sauce in a separate saucepan over medium-low heat. Do not boil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Add the drained pasta to the warmed sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Recipe Variations and Additions, Easy mostaccioli recipe with jar sauce
This basic recipe provides a foundation for endless customization. Experiment with different jarred sauces or add ingredients to enhance the flavor profile. The following examples illustrate how easily you can adapt the recipe.
- Creamy Pesto Mostaccioli: Substitute pesto sauce for marinara and add a sprinkle of pine nuts for added texture.
- Spicy Sausage Mostaccioli: Use a meat sauce and add cooked Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Mostaccioli with Roasted Vegetables: Roast vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions before adding them to the marinara sauce and cooked pasta.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
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Making mostaccioli with jar sauce is a fantastically simple weeknight meal; the ease of using pre-made sauce allows for creativity elsewhere. For instance, you could elevate the dish by serving it with a delicious dipping sauce on the side, perhaps something like this easy chicken dipping sauce recipe , which would complement the savory pasta perfectly. Returning to the mostaccioli, adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving completes the quick and satisfying meal.
Serve the mostaccioli immediately after cooking while it is hot and the sauce is at its most flavorful. A simple yet elegant presentation can enhance the dining experience.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. A side salad or crusty bread complements the pasta perfectly. For a visually appealing presentation, serve the mostaccioli in a shallow bowl, allowing the vibrant color of the sauce and the pasta to shine. A simple sprinkle of cheese and herbs adds a touch of elegance.
Nutritional Information and Considerations
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This recipe provides a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta and vitamins and minerals from the sauce and any added vegetables. The nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of jarred sauce and any additions.
For a lower sodium option, choose a low-sodium jarred sauce. Gluten-free pasta is readily available for those with dietary restrictions. To accommodate various dietary needs, simply substitute ingredients accordingly; for example, using plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan adaptation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Use your favorite brand of gluten-free mostaccioli for a delicious gluten-free version.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a spicier jarred sauce to begin with.
What if I don’t have mostaccioli?
Other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even shells will work well as substitutes.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully.