Jean'S Manicotti
Creamy and flavorful manicotti filled with seasoned meat and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the ground beef and pork sausage until cooked through, then drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked meat with bread crumbs, egg, grated mozzarella, basil, and Italian seasoning.
- Fill the cooked manicotti shells with the meat and cheese mixture.
- Arrange the filled manicotti side by side in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Cover with spaghetti sauce.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of Italian sausage and ground beef. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked meat can be used; just skip the frying step. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried, but remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use sparingly. To enhance the dish, serve with a side of garlic bread, which complements the cheesy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Manicotti with a light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with crusty bread and a glass of red wine to elevate the meal. For a heartier option, accompany it with Italian Shell Bake for a delightful variation of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Manicotti contains roughly 540 calories, with 30g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (87% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef and pork sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian alternatives, such as lentils or mushrooms, can also provide a hearty filling while keeping the dish meat-free.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To prepare ahead, assemble the manicotti and place it in the baking dish covered with sauce. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
What type of spaghetti sauce should I use?
A classic marinara or a robust meat sauce pairs wonderfully with this dish. Consider using Italian Sauce La Roma for a flavorful option, or opt for Brother Bruce'S Pasta Sauce if you prefer a homemade taste. Feel free to add extra herbs to the sauce for enhanced flavor.
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).