Stuffed 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. It’s a staple in many households, evoking memories of cozy family dinners and festive Italian meals. The beauty of stuffed manicotti lies not only in its flavor but also in its versatility. You can customize the filling and sauce to your liking, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and simple weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into this easy stuffed manicotti recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• Pasta:
  • 12 manicotti shells
• Ricotta Cheese Filling:
  • 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
• Marinara Sauce:
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Toppings:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Note: For the best results, use high-quality marinara sauce. You can also make your own marinara sauce by simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs together.

Steps / Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Manicotti: 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.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Filling: 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.
4. Fill the Manicotti: 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.
5. Assemble the Dish: In a 9×13 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 stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the manicotti. This will create a beautifully cheesy layer as it bakes.
7. Bake: 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.
8. Let it Rest: 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.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your stuffed manicotti turns out perfectly, consider the following tips: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the manicotti a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to prep for busy nights, stuffed manicotti freezes well. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
• Avoid Overcooking: When cooking the manicotti shells, be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente is key!
• Enhance Flavor: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta cheese filling for an extra flavor boost and to create a more nutritious dish.

Variations

This stuffed manicotti recipe can be adapted in many ways:

• Vegetarian Options: Keep it vegetarian by using a vegetable-packed marinara sauce or adding roasted vegetables to the filling.
• Meat Lovers: For a meaty version, mix cooked ground beef or sausage into the ricotta filling, blending the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with a hearty twist.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the manicotti with gluten-free pasta shells or zucchini noodles for a lighter, gluten-free meal.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed manicotti is best served hot, straight from the oven, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color. Pair it with a crisp side salad, like Mom’s Marinated Salad, and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements this dish beautifully, enhancing the rich flavors of the marinara sauce.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious stuffed manicotti that is not only satisfying but also a true reflection of Italian culinary tradition. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your thoughts on this family-friendly dinner idea!

St￭ Manicotti

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: Italian Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

4-6

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

40 min

🔥

Calories

—

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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.

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Ingredients

• 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)

Directions

1.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2.

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.

3.

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.

4.

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.

5.

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.

6.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the manicotti. This will create a beautifully cheesy layer as it bakes.

7.

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.

8.

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.