Description
Baked manicotti is a delicious and comforting Italian dish featuring pasta tubes filled with a savory cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or special occasions, this dish will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
12 manicotti shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
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In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix to create the cheese filling.
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Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
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Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Place the stuffed manicotti shells in the dish, then cover them with the remaining marinara sauce.
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Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
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Let sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
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Meat-filled: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the cheese filling for extra richness.
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Vegetarian: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie-packed filling.
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Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled manicotti tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20min
- Cook Time: 40min
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian