Manicotti Parmigiana
Creamy and cheesy manicotti stuffed with seasoned ground beef and mozzarella, baked in rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, garlic spread, and seasoned salt.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions.
- Brown ground beef and green peppers in a skillet; remove from heat and drain off fat.
- Stir in diced mozzarella cheese into the cooked beef mixture.
- Stuff the manicotti shells with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Pour three-quarters of the sauce in a 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed manicotti over the sauce in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the manicotti.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. You can also use a homemade version of Spaghetti Sauce for a fresher taste. Make sure to cook the manicotti shells al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking. For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like basil or oregano into the cheese filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Manicotti Parmigiana with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the dish. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with Italian Beef In Crock-Pot or a side of steamed vegetables for balance.
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) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti Parmigiana contains roughly 1289 calories, with 77g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (154% of the Daily Value), calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1883mg per serving (82% 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 manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella, you can use ricotta cheese for a creamier filling or a blend of provolone and fontina for a sharper flavor. Just ensure the cheese is diced or shredded to allow for even melting and incorporation into the beef mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the manicotti to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed, or bake from frozen, adding time as needed.
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).