Manicotti & Stuffed Shells
Creamy stuffed manicotti and shells are filled with a rich cheese mixture, baked in flavorful spaghetti sauce, perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Romano cheese, chopped parsley, eggs, salt, pepper, and garlic until well combined.
- Cook the giant shells or manicotti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of prepared spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked shell or manicotti with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish over the sauce.
- Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered.
- Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes until hot and bubbly. Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a little sour cream or cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. You can also substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a lighter option. Fresh basil can enhance the flavor profile, so feel free to mix it in. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or filling. Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of sautéed vegetables or a simple caprese salad can add freshness. Consider serving with Italian Sirloin Steak for a hearty dinner, or enjoy it as a standalone vegetarian dish. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top will elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti & Stuffed Shells contains roughly 457 calories, with 20g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (122% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and potassium (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 849mg per serving (37% 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 the filling in advance?
Yes, the cheese filling can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before stuffing the shells. This can save time on a busy cooking day.
What can I use instead of manicotti?
If you can’t find manicotti, giant pasta shells work perfectly as an alternative. They have a similar shape and can hold ample filling. Other options include cannelloni or even homemade Basic Pasta Dough sheets rolled around the filling.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just assemble them in a freezer-safe dish with sauce, cover tightly, and freeze. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if 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).