Greek Style Manicotti
Greek-style manicotti features tender pasta shells stuffed with flavorful steak and vegetables, baked in a rich spaghetti sauce for a hearty Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the manicotti shells in boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Grill the steak until cooked to your liking, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix the spaghetti sauce with the steak pieces. Add diced onion, diced bell pepper, and drained mushrooms if desired.
- Slit each manicotti shell lengthwise on the sides, creating a pocket.
- Stuff the shells with the meat and vegetable mixture, placing the filling on the bottom half of each shell and covering with the top half.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in an oblong pan and pour additional sauce over the top if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the steak with spinach and ricotta cheese. You can also use store-bought marinara sauce for convenience. Ensure the manicotti shells are not overcooked to prevent tearing when stuffing. Adding Italian seasoning to the mixture can enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of traditional Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Greek Style Manicotti with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top before serving adds a nice touch. For a lighter option, pair it with a bowl of Pasta And Bean Soup or a side of Stuffed Zucchini(Serves Two) to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Style Manicotti contains roughly 209 calories, with 10g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% 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 meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter option. You can also use cooked sausage for added flavor. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing it with the sauce and veggies.
How do I prevent the manicotti from breaking while cooking?
To avoid breaking, cook the manicotti shells just until al dente and handle them gently when draining. Using a large pot with plenty of water can also help prevent sticking. Allow them to cool slightly before stuffing to reduce the risk of tearing.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti and fill them a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you're ready to bake. 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).