Manicotti is a beloved Italian dish that brings together tender pasta, creamy cheese, and savory sauce in a deliciously comforting meal. This easy manicotti recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying and flavorful dish ready to serve.
Recipe: Easy Manicotti
Ingredients:
- 14 manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Manicotti
- Avoid Overcooking: Cook the pasta shells until just al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Filling Alternative: For a meaty twist, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture.
- Sauce Variety: Experiment with different types of pasta sauces, such as Alfredo or vodka sauce, to change up the flavor profile.
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