Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been staple in my family for years. For generations. We’re talking about Manicotti, and not just any manicuro – the kind that makes you close your eyes. What is the best way to savor every bite of bread Think lasagna, but instead of layers, we’re stuffing those delicious ricotta mixture into pasta. I promise you, once you try these Manicotti Recipes, you’ll never go back to the frozen kind again. What are some of the best fillings to make? What is comfort food at its best?
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What is Manicotti?
What is Manicotti? Imagine tender pasta tubes embracing a rich, flavorful filling, all swimming in the sea of pasta. Served with melted cheese and tomato sauce. It’s Italian comfort food taken to the next level. The name “manicotti” actually means “sleeves” in Italian, which makes perfect sense when you see pictures of manicini. What are those pasta tubes waiting to be filled? Think of it as a sophisticated, slightly fancier cousin of lasagna, but with an interesting twist. Is it cheesy, saucy and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings? What are some great make-ahead meals? Can you stuff the shells a day or two in advance, keep it in the fridge, then bake when needed?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this manicotti recipe is a winner. What I love most is that it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, seasoned with herbs and spices, creates a truly unforgettable taste. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make. Don’t let the idea of stuffing pasta tubes intimidate you! Once you get the hang of it, it’s a breeze. And let’s talk about budget-friendliness. The ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, so you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the filling with different cheeses, vegetables, or meats to suit your taste. I even sometimes add some spinach to the filling for a little extra nutrition – the kids never even notice! I’ve tried other baked pasta dishes, like stuffed shells, but there’s something about the shape and texture of manicotti that just elevates the whole experience. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
How do I make Manicotti?
Quick Overview
Is it easier to make manicotti? How do I make a creamy, cheesy filling for manicotti? Next, we’ll soak the shells in a delicious tomato sauce, sprinkle them with cheese, and bake until golden brown. Golden and bubbly. What are some tips for overcooking pasta shells? Why do some muffins become mushy during baking? I promise you, this simple technique will give you perfect manicotti every time!
Ingredients
For the Manicotti Shells:
* 12 manicotti shells (the oven-ready kind works great to save time! ) – Look for good quality pasta, it really makes a difference. I usually find mine at an Italian deli. * Olive oil for drizzling.
For the Ricotta Filling:
* 30 oz ricotta cheese – Whole milk rapeseed gives you the best creamy texture. * 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grized is always best! * 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Part-skim works fine. * 1 large egg, lightly beaten – This helps bind the filling together. * 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant flavor. * 2 cloves garlic, minced – Don’t skimp on the garlic! * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper * Pinch of nutmeg – This secret ingredient adds a flavor to any dish. Warm, subtle flavor.
What is the recipe for tomato sauce?
* 2 (24 oz) jars of your favorite marinara sauce – I always use Rao’s, but any good quality sauce. * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil – Adds a fresh, aromatic touch. * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 2 cloves garlic, minced – For extra flavor in the sauce! * Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little kick.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil. How do you clean a manicotti? Make sure to get all the corners and edges!
Step 2: Cook Manicotti Shells (If Needed)
If you are using regular manicotti shells (not the oven-ready kind) cook them according to package instructions. Directions until al dente. How do you cook chicken breasts? How do you rinse a potato under cold water to prevent it from sticking together? Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese with the egg, parsley, and salt. Set aside. What are the ingredients for minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutme What is the best way to mix everything together? What do you want to fill your cup with?
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Set aside. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. How do you burn garlic? Add the marinara sauce, chopped basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. How do you get the flavors to meld together?
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
How do you stuff shells? How do you fill a shell with filling? How do I pipe filling into a ziplock bag? I find the piping bag method to be much easier and less messy. Fill each shell completely and gently place it in the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Assemble & Bake
Half of the tomato sauce is poured over the bottom of a baking dish. Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the manicotti, making sure to cover them completely. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, if desired.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. What happens when sauce is heated through? If the cheese starts to brown, you can cover the dish with foil again.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Let the manicotti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent it from being too runny. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
What is the best way to serve it?
Manicotti is a star on its own, but it pairs beautifully with dozens of sides.
What is a simple dinner?What is a good green salad with creamy vinaigrettes? What are some crusty garlic breads for soaking up that delicious sauce?
For a Special Occasion:Start with a classic Caesar salad or Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. What are the best accompaniments to a glass of Chianti or other Italian red wine?
For a Cozy Night In:What is a comforting dish to serve with manicotti? Don’t forget the cozy atmosphere with candles and a good movie!
I always make garlic bread. The kids love dipping it in the extra sauce!
How do I perfect my Manicotti?
How can I take my Manicotti game to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years?
Don’t overcook the shells. If you’re using regular manicotti shells, make sure to cook them al dente. Overcooked shells will become mushy during baking. They need to be firm enough to hold their shape.
Use High-Quality Ingredients:The better the ingredients, the better manicotti! What’s better: ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce? What’s the difference?
Season Generously:Don’t be afraid to season the filling and sauce generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs. Why do some flavors mellow out during baking?
Don’t overfill the shells: This is Overfilling the shells can cause them to burst during baking. Be careful to fill them completely, but not too tightly.
Let It Rest:After baking, allow the manicotti to rest for 10 minutes. This will help the filling to set. How do I prevent it from being too runny?
Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or cooked ground meat. Get creative and make it your own!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your manicotti:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To prevent the shells from drying out, make sure they are well covered in sauce. The sauce also helps to keep the manicotti from sticking together.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze manicotti. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen manicotti will keep for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of it.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated manicotti, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. To reheat frozen manicotti, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed above. Don’t forget to add a little extra sauce on top if it looks dry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s favorite manicotti recipe! I truly hope you give this a try. It’s one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to your dinner table. The creamy filling, the flavorful sauce, and the tender pasta shells create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other Italian-inspired dishes, like my classic lasagna or my creamy pasta carbonara. And please, don’t be shy about leaving a comment and letting me know how your manicotti turned out! I can’t wait to hear about all the creative variations you come up with! Happy cooking!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Italian Feast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 oz jumbo pasta shells about 20 shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 24 oz marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 4 cloves garlic minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, eggs, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Place stuffed shells in the baking dish.
- Top shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
