Classic Cheesy Baked Manicotti

Classic Cheesy Baked Manicotti

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Preparation time:45 Mins

Cooking time:40 Mins

Servings:6 servings

Ingredients:

• 12 Manicotti Shells (jumbo size)
• 1 (30 ounce) container Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (850g), drained
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (60g)
• 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley (optional)
• 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (2.5ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (1.25ml)
• Pinch of Nutmeg (optional)
• 1 (24 ounce) jar Marinara Sauce (700ml), high quality
• 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese (225g), shredded

Instructions:

• Cook the manicotti shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool slightly.
• In a large bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well until thoroughly combined.
• Transfer the ricotta filling to a pastry bag or a large ziplock bag with a corner cut off. Carefully pipe the filling into each cooked manicotti shell, distributing it evenly. Alternatively, use a spoon to fill the shells.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti shells, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories	450-550
Fat	20-25g
Fiber	N/A

Recipe Info

Category	Main Course
Cuisine	Italian American

Recipe Introduction: Your New Favourite Manicotti Recipe

Ever crave that warm, comforting hug in the form of food? Honestly, who doesn’t? That’s where this manicotti recipe comes in.

This isn't just any recipe; it's a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. I'm talkin' creamy ricotta, delicious tomato sauce, and bubbly mozzarella.

A Taste of Tradition: Homemade Manicotti

Manicotti , traditionally meaning "sleeves" in Italian, is a pasta dish deeply rooted in Italian American culture. It's often served during special occasions.

This recipe will show you that making these filled pasta tubes is easier than you think! It is of medium difficulty, and takes about 1 hour 25 minutes.

This baked manicotti recipe yields about 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner.

Why This Ricotta Manicotti Recipe Rocks

One of the best things about this manicotti recipe is how satisfying it is. It is packed with protein and cheesy goodness.

It's the perfect dish for a cozy Sunday supper with family or even a potluck with friends. Seriously, this is what you call a perfect meaty manicotti recipe .

It uses an entire 30 ounce container of whole milk ricotta cheese! What makes this easy manicotti recipe special? I think it's all in the perfect balance of flavors, and how simple it is to bring it all together.

Alright, let's dive into the yummy ingredients you'll need for this manicotti recipe with meat ... or without if you're feelin' veggie.

Okay, so we're diving into the nitty gritty of making this amazing manicotti recipe . Honestly, getting your ingredients right is half the battle! I mean, nobody wants bland manicotti, right? I've been there, trust me.

Essential Gear & Grub: Let's Talk Manicotti Recipe With Meat

Main Ingredients - The Heart of the Matter

Here’s what you’ll need, measured just right, for that meaty manicotti recipe that'll have everyone asking for seconds:

• Manicotti Shells : 12 jumbo shells. Seriously, jumbo is the way to go.
• Ricotta Cheese : 30 ounces (850g) of whole milk ricotta. Quality alert! Look for the freshest you can find. Draining this is KEY; don't skip that step, or you'll have a watery mess. No one wants a watery Manicotti Filling .
• Parmesan Cheese : ½ cup (60g) , grated. The real stuff, not the powdery green can, okay?
• Parsley : ¼ cup , chopped fresh. Optional, but it adds a nice little touch of green.
• Egg : 1 large egg, lightly beaten. Helps bind everything together, like glue.
• Garlic Powder : 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Gotta have that garlic kick!
• Salt : ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) . Because flavor.
• Black Pepper : ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) . Freshly ground, if you're fancy!
• Nutmeg : A pinch, optional. Trust me on this one; it's a secret weapon.
• Marinara Sauce : 24 ounce (700ml) jar. Splurge on a good quality sauce. It makes a HUGE difference.
• Mozzarella Cheese : 8 ounces (225g) , shredded. The more, the merrier!

Spice Up Your Life: Seasoning Notes

This is where we go from good to amazing . Let's chat Italian Sausage Manicotti.

• Essential Spice Combo: Garlic powder, salt, pepper, pinch of nutmeg. That's your base!
• Flavor Enhancers: Fresh basil in the sauce. Oh my gosh , so good!
• Quick Sub: No parsley? Use a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Boom.
• If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Equipment You'll Need

Nothing crazy here. Just the basics for our manicotti recipe sausage .

• Large pot: For boiling pasta. Obvs.
• Colander: For draining the pasta. Again, obvs.
• Large mixing bowl: For the ricotta filling.
• 9x13 inch baking dish : The perfect size.
• Pastry bag or ziplock bag: Makes filling the shells easier, but not essential. A spoon works just fine!

Honestly, this easy manicotti recipe doesn't require fancy equipment. You probably have most of this stuff already! This homemade manicotti will be a hit!.

You're ready to make a Baked Manicotti Recipe for your family! This Ricotta Manicotti Recipe is easy to follow! This stuffed manicotti shells recipe is perfect!

Cooking Manicotti: My No-Fail Method

Honestly, who doesn't love manicotti ? It's like a warm hug on a plate. But let's be real: it can be a bit fiddly.

I've had my share of manicotti mishaps, from exploded shells to watery filling. So, after much trial and error, I've nailed a method that works every time.

And I am excited to share this easy manicotti recipe with you!

Prep Steps for Perfect Pasta

Essential mise en place is key. First, drain your ricotta . I use a cheesecloth. It prevents soggy manicotti. Trust me on this.

It takes about 15 minutes . Gather all your ingredients. Chop parsley if using. Grate the cheese. Prepping saves time later.

For safety, be careful when you cook the pasta, the steam is very hot.

How To make Meaty Manicotti Recipe With Meat

1. Cook 12 manicotti shells. Follow package directions until al dente . Don't overcook!
2. Make the manicotti filling . Mix 850g ricotta , 60g Parmesan , 1/4 cup parsley , 1 egg , 1 tsp garlic powder , 1/2 tsp salt , and 1/4 tsp pepper . Optional: a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Fill the shells. Use a pastry bag. A ziplock bag with a cut corner also works. It prevents Italian sausage manicotti mess.
4. Layer the pan. Spread marinara sauce in a 9x13 inch dish . Arrange the filled shells.
5. Top and bake. Cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle 225g mozzarella on top.
6. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 40 minutes . The cheese should be bubbly.

Pro Tips for Homemade Manicotti

Want to make your manicotti even better? Here is the manicotti recipe sausage : Brown some Italian sausage and add it to the filling.

It makes a meaty manicotti recipe . For a ricotta manicotti recipe , be sure to thoroughly drain the ricotta cheese.

Do not overfill the shells to avoid bursting, less is more. If the cheese is browning too fast, cover with foil during the last 10 minutes .

Also, you can make the filling a day ahead, then refrigerate. This baked manicotti recipe is the best.

Alright, let's chat manicotti recipe ! You've got the basics down. Now, a few extra thoughts to make your manicotti recipe with meat truly epic. This is where the magic happens.

Recipe Notes: Making it Your Own

Honestly, even the best easy manicotti recipe benefits from a personal touch. It's all about those little details. Let's dive in!

Serving Suggestions: Plates That Pop

Presentation matters, right? A sprig of fresh basil adds a touch of class. Maybe a light dusting of Parmesan on each plate.

A simple green salad is the perfect side. Its a refreshing contrast to the rich meaty manicotti recipe . To drink? A nice glass of Chianti.

Delizioso!

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? Score! This homemade manicotti tastes even better the next day, You know? For the fridge, three to four days max in an airtight container.

For freezing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Then pop them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until bubbly.

Microwaving works too, but it might get a little...mushy.

Variations: Tweak to Your Taste

Want a vegetarian ricotta manicotti recipe ? Easy peasy! Swap the meat for spinach or mushrooms. Feeling adventurous? A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

For a lighter version, use part skim ricotta. Just remember to drain it well.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Okay, so it's not exactly health food. It is Italian sausage manicotti , after all. But ricotta has protein. Tomatoes have vitamins.

Enjoy it in moderation. A little indulgence never hurt anyone. I once read somewhere that eating too little of your favourite food is bad for mental health, and i agree!.

So, there you have it. A few extra tips to elevate your baked manicotti recipe . Dont' be scared to experiment with the manicotti filling .

The most important thing? Have fun! And most importantly, you are cooking! Grab your apron and create this stuffed manicotti shells recipe !