Frank 'N Chili Manicotti Ole
A hearty baked manicotti dish filled with frankfurters and melted cheese, topped with chili and tomatoes—perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicotti shells according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Shred 2/3 of the Monterey Jack cheese and cut the remaining cheese into strips.
- Insert cheese strips into slit frankfurters.
- Place one cheese-stuffed frankfurter into each cooked manicotti shell.
- Combine chili and tomatoes in a bowl.
- Spread 2 cups of the chili-tomato mixture in the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the mixture.
- Pour the remaining chili-tomato mixture over the shells.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, uncover, and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese has melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a sturdy manicotti shell to hold the filling. You can substitute the frankfurters with turkey or vegetarian options for lighter variations. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding jalapeños to the chili mixture or using pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. This dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Frank 'N Chili Manicotti Ole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Dreamsicles for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frank 'N Chili Manicotti Ole contains roughly 140 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg per serving (23% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti and assemble the dish the day before. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Hormel chili?
You can use homemade chili or any canned chili of your choice. For a vegetarian version, opt for a hearty bean chili or a chili made with lentils. Adjust the spices to match your taste preferences.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider using spicy frankfurters or stirring in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños into the chili-tomato mixture. You can also top the dish with sliced jalapeños before baking for an extra kick.
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).