Oh my goodness, let me tell you about manicotti! This delightful Italian dish is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s filled with a creamy cheese mixture that just melts in your mouth, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells and drenched in rich marinara sauce. Trust me, when you take that first bite, the flavors come together in such a comforting way that you can’t help but smile. I love making manicotti on cozy nights when I want to treat myself (or impress friends!). It’s surprisingly easy to prepare but feels like an indulgent feast. Honestly, there’s something so fulfilling about digging into a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings people together around the table. You’ve got to try it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious manicotti. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish simply irresistible!
- 12 manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (creamy and smooth)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey goodness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty kick)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred kind)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for a hint of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a must for that authentic taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip these for extra flavor!)
Make sure to gather everything before you start; it’ll make the cooking process much smoother—and trust me, you want to savor every moment of making this fabulous dish!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering manicotti! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to impress.
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for our delicious pasta!
- Next, cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir them gently while cooking to prevent sticking. Once they’re done, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
- While the shells are cooling, grab a mixing bowl and combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s a creamy, cheesy delight.
- Now comes the fun part! Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with your cheese mixture. I like to use a spoon for this, but you can also use a piping bag if you want to feel fancy!
- In a baking dish, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. This keeps the shells from sticking and adds extra flavor.
- Place the stuffed manicotti shells in the dish, making sure they’re nestled in the sauce. It’s okay if they’re a bit close together; they’ll be friends in the oven!
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, making sure they’re fully covered. We want all that saucy goodness!
- Cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps everything bake evenly and stay moist.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10 minutes. This is when the magic happens—everything gets bubbly and golden.
- Finally, once it’s out of the oven, let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a little, and trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
And there you have it! A simple yet satisfying process that leads to a dish bursting with flavor. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this delightful manicotti! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so they might vary a bit based on what you choose to use.
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
This hearty dish is not only delicious but also gives you a nice balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a fantastic option for a satisfying meal. So, dig in without guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Every bite is bursting with flavor thanks to the cheesy filling and rich marinara sauce.
- It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that even meat lovers will adore.
- Great for meal prep—make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
- Leftovers taste even better the next day; the flavors just keep getting more delicious!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- You can customize the filling to suit your taste—add spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite herbs!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your manicotti turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Don’t overcook the shells: It’s super important to cook the manicotti shells just until they’re al dente. They’ll continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want them to turn mushy!
- Stuffing technique: If you’re finding it tricky to stuff the shells, consider using a piping bag. It makes the process so much easier and cleaner! Plus, you can fill them up generously.
- Use plenty of sauce: Don’t skimp on the marinara sauce! Make sure the shells are well-covered before baking. This keeps them moist and helps meld all those flavors together beautifully.
- Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Adding a little goat cheese or feta can give a nice tangy twist, while a bit of smoked mozzarella can add depth.
- Let it cool: After baking, give your manicotti a few minutes to cool before serving. This allows the filling to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and eat.
- Fresh herbs for flavor: If you have some fresh basil or parsley on hand, chop it up and sprinkle it on top before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that really elevates the dish!
- Make-ahead magic: If you want to prep ahead, go for it! Assemble your manicotti, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up the most delicious manicotti ever. Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!
Variations
Now, let’s get a little creative with our manicotti! This dish is super versatile, and you can easily mix things up to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:
- Cheese swap: While ricotta is a classic choice, why not experiment with different cheeses? Try mixing in some creamy goat cheese or tangy feta for a delightful twist. You could even use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor!
- Vegetable goodness: Want to sneak in some veggies? Chop up some spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers and toss them into your cheese mixture. This not only boosts the nutrition but adds a lovely texture and flavor!
- Herb-infused: Fresh herbs can really elevate your dish. Consider adding some chopped basil, parsley, or even a touch of dill to the cheese filling for an aromatic boost. It brings a freshness that contrasts beautifully with the savory sauce!
- Different sauces: Marinara is delicious, but why not switch it up? A creamy alfredo or a rich pesto sauce can give your manicotti a completely new vibe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a sauce that’s thicker or creamier.
- Meat lovers: If you’re in the mood for something heartier, you can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the cheese filling. This turns your manicotti into a satisfying meaty feast!
- Spicy kick: Looking for some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce. It’ll give your dish a delightful zing that’s sure to please spicy food lovers!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect manicotti! The essence of the dish remains the same—comforting, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious—while your unique touches make it truly yours. Enjoy the process and have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some delicious manicotti leftovers? Lucky you! Storing and reheating them properly is key to keeping that cheesy goodness intact for your next meal. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing: Allow your manicotti to cool completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. If you want to keep the layers intact, consider placing a piece of parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
- Refrigeration: You can store your manicotti in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to cover it well so it doesn’t absorb any other flavors in the fridge!
- Freezing: Want to make it last longer? You can freeze manicotti for up to 2 months! Just make sure to wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date so you know when you made it!
When it’s time to reheat, here’s my favorite way to do it:
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If frozen, let the manicotti thaw in the fridge overnight first. Place the manicotti in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until it’s warmed through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top get a little bubbly and golden.
- Microwave method: For a quick fix, you can microwave individual servings. Place a piece of manicotti on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it from drying out), and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Whichever method you choose, I promise your reheated manicotti will still be comforting and delicious. Enjoy those cheesy bites all over again!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious manicotti ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right sides can elevate your meal and make it even more delightful. Here are some of my favorite pairings that work like a charm:
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad is the perfect companion. I love a classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Or, go for a simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, lemon vinaigrette, and perhaps some shaved Parmesan for a refreshing bite!
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s great for soaking up all that delicious marinara sauce. Just slice a baguette, slather it with garlic butter, and toast it in the oven until golden and crispy. Yum!
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy touch, serve some roasted veggies on the side. Toss your favorites—like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus—with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and slightly caramelized. They add color and nutrition to your plate!
- Wine Pairing: If you’re looking for a drink to complement your meal, a nice red wine like Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the marinara and cheese. For a white option, a crisp Pinot Grigio works nicely too!
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is another great choice. It adds a pop of color and a bit of crunch, plus it’s super easy to prepare. Just steam until vibrant green and tender, then drizzle with a touch of olive oil and lemon juice for extra flavor!
These sides not only balance out the richness of the manicotti but also make your meal feel complete and satisfying. Mix and match to find your perfect combination, and enjoy every delicious bite with friends and family! Trust me, they’ll love it!
Print
Manicotti: 7 Divine Layers of Comforting Cheesy Goodness
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pasta dish filled with cheese and baked in marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Arrange stuffed shells over the sauce in the dish.
- Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Substitute spinach for some ricotta for variation.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: manicotti, pasta, Italian dish, baked pasta