Manicotti is a delicious Italian pasta dish consisting of large, tubular pasta filled with a rich cheese mixture and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Here’s a simple recipe to make manicotti:
Ingredients:
- 12 manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Manicotti Shells:
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Manicotti:
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid breaking the shells.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the filled manicotti shells in the dish, side by side. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Tips:
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the manicotti ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
- Variations: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cooked ground meat to the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Sauce options: For a creamy version, you can mix in some Alfredo sauce with the marinara or use a white sauce instead.
Manicotti is a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments or variations!