St￭ manicotti is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. This pasta dish, characterized by its large tubes filled with a delightful ricotta cheese filling, is often smothered in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Scale:
12 manicotti shells
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon garlic and herb seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic and herb seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta cheese filling. Be generous but avoid overstuffing to prevent spills during baking.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom. Place the filled manicotti shells on top of the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the st￭ shells, ensuring they are well covered.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the manicotti. This will create a beautifully cheesy layer as it bakes.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Once out of the oven, allow the manicotti to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the filling set slightly and make for easier serving.
