Manicotti, a delightful Italian dish, is a favorite among pasta lovers. Stuffed with rich and creamy cheese, these pasta tubes offer a satisfying meal for families and friends alike. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, manicotti is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
Making manicotti is a great way to bring a taste of Italy into your home. This recipe is not only delicious but also quite simple. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Plus, it’s a wonderful opportunity to gather loved ones around the table and share a hearty meal.
How to Make Manicotti
Ingredients:
- 12 manicotti pasta tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed manicotti in the dish and top with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil, and serve.
How to Serve Manicotti
Serve the manicotti hot straight from the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil for a touch of color and flavor!
How to Store Manicotti
If you have leftovers, let the manicotti cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for 3–5 days. You can also freeze uncooked manicotti: just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and use it within 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven until hot throughout.
Tips to Make Manicotti
- Make sure to cook the manicotti pasta until it’s just al dente so it doesn’t break while stuffing.
- You can add spinach or ground meat to the cheese filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you like it spicy, try adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
Variation
You can play with stuffing ingredients. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, cooked sausage, or even different types of cheese such as goat cheese or feta to mix things up.
FAQs
1. Can I make manicotti ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed manicotti beforehand and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
2. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream as a substitute for ricotta.
3. Is there a gluten-free option for manicotti?
Yes, look for gluten-free manicotti pasta, which is made from rice or corn, and follow the same preparation steps.
Manicotti is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth with every bite. Enjoy making and sharing this crowd-pleaser with your loved ones!
