Few meals are as satisfying as a warm, cheesy pasta dish straight from the pot. Slow Cooker Baked Mostaccioli is a comforting Italian-American favorite that combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory meat, and plenty of melted cheese. What makes this recipe even better is that it’s prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to develop slowly while you go about your day.
Traditionally, baked mostaccioli is prepared in the oven, but using a slow cooker transforms it into a simple, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy families, potlucks, or weekend dinners. The result is a hearty dish with layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese that tastes like it simmered all day.
What Is Mostaccioli? 🍽️
Mostaccioli is a type of tube-shaped pasta, similar to penne but typically smooth rather than ridged. Its hollow center is perfect for holding rich sauces, which makes it ideal for baked pasta dishes. When slow cooked with a flavorful sauce and cheese, the pasta absorbs the seasonings and becomes incredibly tender.
This dish is loved because it brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors in one satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Recipe
This slow cooker version has several advantages:
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Minimal effort: Just layer the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work
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Rich flavor: Slow cooking allows the sauce and pasta to blend beautifully
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Perfect for gatherings: It makes a large, crowd-pleasing portion
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Comfort food at its best: Warm, cheesy, and filling
Ingredients 🧾
To make Slow Cooker Baked Mostaccioli, you’ll need:
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1 pound mostaccioli pasta
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1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
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1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional additions:
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Red pepper flakes for heat
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Mostaccioli
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