Manicotti Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of Italian elegance, look no further than manicotti. This classic pasta dish features tender tubes filled with a rich cheese mixture, smothered in savory marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a special occasion, manicotti is sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe to create this delicious Italian favorite.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 12 manicotti shells

For topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Manicotti Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook the shells, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Place them on a clean towel to dry.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Manicotti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a small spoon or a piping bag. Place the filled shells in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all the shells are covered.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top of the manicotti. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the manicotti from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the manicotti shells from sticking together, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the boiling water before adding the pasta.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake.
• Add Veggies: For a twist, add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Manicotti is a timeless Italian dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy cheese filling, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious manicotti dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

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I hope this blog post helps you create a delightful manicotti dish. If you have any other recipe requests or need further assistance, feel free to ask!