Name: Delicious Manicotti Recipe Easy Irresistible Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 to 14 manicotti shells; 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Optional: Italian seasoning or garlic powder for added flavor

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Hey there, friend! Today, I want to whisk you away into a cozy corner of my kitchen where tantalizing aromas swirl through the air and everything feels just a bit brighter. There’s something incredibly comforting about hearing that gentle bubbling of tomato sauce simmering on the stove while the smell of melted cheese fills the air—like a warm hug after a long day. This dish holds a special place in my heart and my table: it’s none other than Manicotti! Ah, manicotti—the tubular pasta that’s just waiting to be filled with gooey cheese, savory meats, or fresh herbs. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that feels like home, no matter where you are. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Weeknight Dinner: Prep it ahead of time, so you can toss it in the oven as you unwind.
Comforting Flavors: A rich blend of cheeses and marinara sauce will warm your soul.
Customizable: Flexible for various diets—vegan, gluten-free, you name it!
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, who can’t resist cheesy goodness!

Ingredients

Gathering these ingredients is like gathering little nuggets of happiness for your plate. Here’s what you’ll need:

12 to 14 manicotti shells (store-bought is great; fresh makes it even better!)
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese (the creamier, the better—full-fat works wonders)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (and maybe a bit more for topping!)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (to add that nutty, salty depth)
1 large egg (to bind everything together)
2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite brand)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for a pop of freshness)
Optional: Italian seasoning or garlic powder for added flavor

Feel free to add in spinach or sautéed mushrooms for that extra vegetable punch. It’s all about what makes your heart sing!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get our hands a little messy! Cooking with love means that we can savor each step. Here’s how to whip up your delicious manicotti:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A cozy kitchen is a happy kitchen!
Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Gently add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-7 minutes until al dente. They should be firm but not too soft since they’ll cook more in the oven. Drain them and let them cool on a towel or plate.
Mix the cheese filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. Here’s a little tip: if you want a bit more flavor, don’t be shy to sprinkle in some Italian seasoning or garlic powder!
Prepare the baking dish: Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This layer of sauce will help keep the pasta from sticking.
Fill the shells: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. I like to fill them generously, but don’t worry if they overflow a little. It just means more cheesy goodness!
Assemble in the dish: Place the filled manicotti in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure all shells are covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top. Trust me, you want that glorious, melty layer!
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Cool and serve: Allow it to cool for a few minutes before digging in. It’s too tempting, but your taste buds will thank you for waiting!

Pro Tips & Variations

This recipe is like a canvas, and I’m here to help you paint it beautifully! Here are some fun ideas:

Add veggies: Sauté some spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini and mix them into your filling.
Try different cheeses: Swap out the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. You could also use goat cheese for a tangy twist!
Season it up: Add red pepper flakes for a kick. Everyone loves a little heat, right?
Garnish: Top with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil before serving for that lovely restaurant touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your manicotti is all about creating that perfect vibe! Picture this: a table laid out with warm garlic bread, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette, and a glass of red wine (or sparkling water if you prefer!). You could even whip up a lovely side of roasted vegetables to make it a full meal. There’s something so magical about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing hearty laughs, and, of course, enjoying this divine dish together. Don’t forget to have some extra marinara on the side for dipping or drizzling!

Storage Tips

Now, I know the temptation of leftovers can be just as strong as that first delicious bite! Here’s how to store your manicotti:

Refrigerating: Allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the filled shells before baking. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezing container. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 months. When you want to bake them, just pop them directly from the freezer into the oven—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: When reheating, it’s best to add a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent drying out. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free manicotti or pasta?

Absolutely! There are plenty of gluten-free pasta options available that you can use to adapt this recipe without sacrificing taste. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

Can I make manicotti in advance?

You bet! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just store the filled manicotti in the fridge, covered. When you’re ready to bake, pour on the marinara and pop it in the oven straight from the fridge!

What can I serve with manicotti?

A light salad, some garlic bread, or even a side of roasted veggies pairs beautifully with manicotti. It’s such a versatile dish, so feel free to get creative!

Can I use a different kind of sauce?

Of course! Alfredo sauce or a creamy béchamel are delightful alternatives to marinara if you’re in the mood for something different. Just remember to decorate with cheese on top!

Conclusion

I hope you’ve enjoyed this delightful journey into the world of manicotti! I’d love for you to give this recipe a try. It’s truly a joy to make and share, bringing smiles and satisfaction to the dinner table. Don’t forget to comment and let me know how your manicotti turned out—did you customize it in your own delicious way? Let’s chat! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and laughter!

Delicious Manicotti Recipe Easy Irresistible Dish

Author: antaki
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Savor this easy manicotti recipe featuring a delectable filling and flavors that make it an irresistible dish for any occasion Enjoy

Ingredients

Scale

12 to 14 manicotti shells

1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cups marinara sauce

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional: Italian seasoning or garlic powder for added flavor

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Gently add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-7 minutes until al dente. Drain and let cool.

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.

Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.

Place the filled manicotti in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This Manicotti recipe is a comforting Italian-American dish filled with cheesy goodness and topped with marinara sauce. Perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American