Chris'S Manicotti
Creamy and cheesy manicotti shells are filled with a rich mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned to taste. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish offers comforting flavors with a satisfying cheesy topping, making it a crowd-pleasing Italian classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ricotta cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other seasonings as desired.
- Reserve 2 cups of mozzarella cheese for topping.
- Stuff cooked manicotti shells with the cheese mixture.
- Place the filled shells in a baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the ricotta mixture. If you want to spice it up, add some chopped spinach or herbs like basil and oregano. Make sure to cook the manicotti shells al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking. For a quicker option, use store-bought marinara sauce if you don't have time to make your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. It pairs beautifully with Italian Bread and a side salad for a complete meal. A light tomato sauce or a drizzle of olive oil on top can enhance the flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving with Joe'S Spaghetti Sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious as it may dry out. If freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chris'S Manicotti contains roughly 910 calories, with 64g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (142% of the Daily Value), protein (128% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2150mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture. Adding feta or goat cheese can also give a unique twist to the filling. Just keep the ratios similar to maintain consistency.
What if I can't find manicotti shells?
If manicotti shells are unavailable, consider using jumbo pasta shells as a substitute. You can fill them in the same way, although the cooking time may vary. Alternatively, you can layer the filling between sheets of lasagna for a delicious baked pasta dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).