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Manicotti Recipe

Manicotti Recipe

5.2 from 29 reviews

A classic Manicotti recipe featuring tender pasta shells filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, seasoned with aromatic herbs and baked to perfection in marinara sauce. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Manicotti Shells:

  • 10 manicotti shells

Cheese Filling:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 ¼ cups shredded parmesan cheese (¼ cup separated)
  • 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups separated)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
  • Fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook Manicotti Shells: Cook manicotti shells per package instructions, rinse with cold water, drain, and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, eggs, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Layer Marinara: Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish.
  4. Fill Manicotti: Fill shells with cheese mixture, place in dish.
  5. Top with Sauce: Pour remaining marinara over shells.
  6. Bake: Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 40-45 mins.
  7. Final Cheese Layer: Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan, bake uncovered until melted.
  8. Rest and Serve: Let it cool, garnish with basil, and serve.

Notes

  • You can customize the cheese blend with your favorite Italian cheeses.
  • Adding cooked ground meat to the cheese filling is a delicious variation.
  • For a vegetarian option, sautéed spinach or mushrooms can be added to the filling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Manicotti, Italian, Pasta, Cheese, Baked