Manicotti

Manicotti is a classic Italian dish that features large pasta tubes stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat. Baked in a rich marinara or creamy sauce, manicotti makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Tasting Notes

The manicotti is a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, savory herbs, and tangy marinara sauce. The pasta tubes are tender, while the cheesy filling provides a luxurious contrast. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

• 12 manicotti pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Spoon
• Foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into a large resealable plastic bag or a piping bag fitted with a large tip.
5. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Snip off one corner of the plastic bag or piping bag and pipe the cheese mixture into each manicotti shell, filling them completely. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in the baking dish.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the stuffed manicotti, covering them completely.
8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Pro Tips

• Cook the manicotti shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
• Allow the manicotti to cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.

Variations

• Meaty Manicotti: Brown some ground beef or Italian sausage and mix it into the cheese filling for a heartier dish.
• Spinach and Mushroom Manicotti: Sauté chopped spinach and mushrooms with garlic until tender, then add them to the cheese mixture before stuffing the manicotti shells.
• Alfredo Sauce: Substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist on this classic dish.

FAQs