Baked Mostaccioli

Directions

1. 1
   Cook mostaccioli and set aside.
2. 2
   In large saucepan, cook ground beef, onion, green pepper and garlic until meat is browned and vegetables are tender.
3. 3
   Drain off fat.
4. 4
   Stir in undrained tomatoes, tomato sauce and paste, undrained mushrooms, water, sugar, basil and bay leaf.
5. 5
   Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 30 minutes.
6. 6
   Stir occasionally.
7. 7
   Remove bay leaf.
8. 8
   Stir in mostaccioli.
9. 9
   Turn half of the meat mixture into 2-quart casserole.
10. 10
    Layer half of Mozzarella cheese on top.
11. 11
    Top with remaining meat mixture.
12. 12
    Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
13. 13
    Cover with foil.
14. 14
    Bake in 350° oven 35 minutes.
15. 15
    Remove foil.
16. 16
    Cut remaining Mozzarella cheese into strips; arrange on top of casserole.
17. 17
    Bake about 5 minutes.
18. 18
    Let stand 5 minutes before serving.