Manicotti With Meat
Creamy manicotti stuffed with savory meat mixture, topped with cheese and baked to perfection—an comforting Italian classic perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Drain excess drippings and add bread crumbs, salt, pepper, eggs, and milk; mix thoroughly.
- Pour half of the spaghetti sauce into a baking dish.
- Cook manicotti noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- Stuff cooked noodles with the meat mixture.
- Place stuffed noodles in the baking dish with the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the noodles.
- Spread extra cheese over the sauce.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding chopped spinach or ricotta cheese to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or sausage can be great substitutes. Also, using a mix of cheeses, like ricotta or Parmesan, can enhance the dish. Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a classic antipasto platter pairs beautifully with this dish. For a comforting meal, consider a side of steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus. This hearty recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti With Meat contains roughly 666 calories, with 39g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2182mg per serving (95% 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 assemble the manicotti a day in advance. Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through.
What should I do if I can't find manicotti noodles?
If manicotti noodles are unavailable, you can use jumbo shells as an alternative. Simply stuff the shells with the meat mixture and bake as instructed. Another option is to layer the ingredients like a lasagna, which can also be a delightful twist on this classic dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. You can also use lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh. For added creaminess, include ricotta cheese in the filling. Adjust the seasoning to complement the vegetables used.
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).