Manicotti Recipe

Name: Manicotti Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 12 manicotti shells; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Indulge in this delightful manicotti recipe, a classic Italian dish that features pasta tubes filled with a creamy, cheesy filling and topped with savory marinara sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this manicotti will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

12 manicotti shells
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 and requires 30 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of cooking time.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 manicotti) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g of protein, 15g of fat, and 25g of carbohydrates. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed manicotti in the dish on top of the sauce.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle with extra mozzarella, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter filling. Additionally, feel free to use spinach or ground meat as a filling alternative to add more flavor and nutrition.

Serving and Pairings

This manicotti pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the dish perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Manicotti can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the manicotti shells can make them too soft.
Not enough filling can result in dry pasta.
Using low-quality marinara sauce can affect the flavor.
Forgetting to cover the dish can lead to a dry top.
Not letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving can make it fall apart.

Helpful Tips

Use a piping bag for easy filling of the manicotti shells.
For extra flavor, add herbs or spices to the cheese mixture.
Try mixing in sautéed vegetables for added nutrition.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

FAQs

Can manicotti be made ahead of time?

Yes, manicotti can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?

You can use Alfredo sauce or a homemade tomato sauce for a different flavor profile. Both options work well with stuffed pasta.

How do I prevent the shells from breaking?

Cook the shells just until al dente and let them cool slightly before handling. This will help them stay intact while filling.

Can I freeze manicotti?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and freeze it before baking. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What cheese works best for stuffing manicotti?

Ricotta is traditional, but you can blend it with mozzarella or even goat cheese for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

This manicotti recipe is a true comfort food classic that everyone will love. With its creamy filling and rich sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with family and friends!