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Manicotti Recipe

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Manicotti is a comforting Italian-inspired baked pasta dish featuring tender pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy ricotta cheese filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 12 manicotti shells
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.
  4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  6. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the manicotti and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  10. Let the manicotti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Add cooked spinach to the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Mix cooked Italian sausage or ground beef into the filling for a heartier version.
  • Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
  • Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy variation.
  • Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/manicotti-recipe/