A Cheesy Italian Classic for Every Occasion

If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing Italian dish, look no further than this classic manicotti recipe. Bursting with creamy ricotta, savory parmesan, and gooey mozzarella, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal, this manicotti recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who adores Italian cuisine and wants a dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of rich cheeses, aromatic herbs, and hearty marinara sauce makes this manicotti truly irresistible. It’s also highly customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Who Is This Recipe For?

Busy families: This dish can be prepped ahead of time and baked when ready.
Entertainers: Impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal.
Vegetarians: A satisfying meat-free option.
Cheese lovers: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese!

Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering manicotti:

10 manicotti shells: You can substitute with cannelloni tubes if manicotti isn’t available.
2 cups ricotta cheese: Swap with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
1 ¼ cups shredded parmesan cheese: Divide ¼ cup for topping.
2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Keep 1 ½ cups for the filling and 1 cup for topping.
1 24 oz jar of marinara sauce: Use homemade or store-bought.
2 eggs: Acts as a binder for the filling.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Add more for a stronger garlic flavor.
1 tsp dried parsley: Fresh parsley works well too.
1 tsp dried basil: Substitute with fresh basil if available.
Salt and pepper to taste.
Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish).

Optional Additions

Spinach: Add a cup of cooked, chopped spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrients.
Ground meat: For a meaty version, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the marinara sauce.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot for cooking pasta
Colander
Mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Spoon or piping bag for filling shells

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Manicotti Shells

Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside to cool.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Make the Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded parmesan, 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella, eggs, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.

5. Fill the Shells

Carefully spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into the cooked manicotti shells. A piping bag can make this process easier and less messy.

6. Assemble the Dish

Arrange the filled manicotti shells in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are evenly covered.

7. Bake the Manicotti

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly.

8. Add the Final Touch

Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of parmesan cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

9. Garnish and Serve

Let the manicotti rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with thinly sliced fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Slightly undercook the shells to prevent them from breaking when filling.
Use a Piping Bag: This makes filling the shells quick and mess-free.
Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Freeze for Later: Assemble the manicotti, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Food and Drink Pairings

Salad: Pair with a simple Caesar or mixed greens salad.
Bread: Serve with garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf.
Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the dish beautifully.
Dessert: End the meal with tiramisu or cannoli for an authentic Italian experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Gluten-Free?

Yes! Substitute the manicotti shells with gluten-free pasta options.

Can I Use a Different Sauce?

Absolutely. Alfredo or a creamy tomato sauce can add a unique twist.

How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?

Use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling or sauce.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish or two smaller dishes to accommodate the extra ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This manicotti recipe is a classic Italian favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its rich, cheesy filling and flavorful marinara sauce make it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is straightforward and rewarding to make.

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