Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/15 checked
6
servings
8 ounce

mostaccioli

uncooked

2 tbsp

reduced-calorie stick margarine

divided

1 cup

onion

vertically sliced

2 tsp

minced garlic

bottled

0.25 cup

all-purpose flour

2.5 cup

skim milk

1.25 cup

Parmesan cheese

preshredded, divided

1.5 tsp

dried Italian seasoning

0.5 tsp

pepper

14.5 ounce

diced tomatoes

canned, with basil, garlic, and oregano

10 ounce

frozen chopped spinach

thawed and drained

1 unit

cooking spray

0.25 cup

dry breadcrumbs

2 tbsp

Parmesan cheese

preshredded

1 unit

Parsley sprigs

optional

Step 1
~4 min

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2
~4 min

Cook mostaccioli according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain and set aside.

Step 3
~4 min

Melt 1 tablespoon of reduced-calorie stick margarine in a medium heavy saucepan over medium-high heat.

Step 4
~4 min

Add vertically sliced onion and minced garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, or until tender.

Step 5
~4 min

Add all-purpose flour and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Step 6
~4 min

Gradually add skim milk, cook for 4 minutes or until bubbly.

Step 7
~4 min

Remove from heat.

Step 8
~4 min

Stir in 1/4 cup of preshredded Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and pepper; remove from heat.

Step 9
~4 min

Combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, 1 cup of preshredded Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, and thawed and drained frozen chopped spinach in a large bowl.

Step 10
~4 min

Stir well to combine.

Step 11
~4 min

Spoon the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray.

Key Technique: Baking
Step 12
~4 min

Combine dry breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of preshredded Parmesan cheese, and remaining 1 tablespoon margarine in a small bowl.

Step 13
~4 min

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta mixture in the baking dish.

Key Technique: Baking
Step 14
~4 min

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and bubbly.

Step 15
~4 min

Garnish with parsley sprigs, if desired, before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.

Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone.

Top with fresh basil before serving.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad.

Serve with garlic bread.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Garlic Bread
Side Salad

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Italy

Cultural Significance

Comfort food, family gatherings

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Christmas
Thanksgiving

Occasion Tags

Family Dinner
Weeknight Meal
Potluck

Popularity Score

70/100

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