Manicotti
Creamy and cheesy manicotti baked to perfection, this classic Italian dish features tender pasta stuffed with a rich ricotta mixture, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it offers comforting flavors and a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cooked manicotti and place on foil in a single layer.
- Mix ricotta cheese, bread crumbs, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and garlic powder to create the filling.
- Stuff the cooked manicotti with the cheese mixture.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then add tomato sauce and garlic powder to create the sauce.
- Pour some sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the manicotti and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your manicotti filling, try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you're short on ricotta, cottage cheese can be a suitable substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Don't forget to taste your sauce; a pinch of sugar can help balance acidity. You can also check out Tasty Stuffed Pasta Shells for another delicious pasta dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert, finish with Italian Love Cake or Biscotti(Italian Cookies) to round out your Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti contains roughly 852 calories, with 39g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (82% of the Daily Value), protein (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1528mg per serving (66% 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 prepare manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti and cover it tightly with foil before refrigerating. Just make sure to add extra baking time when you cook it from cold. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor, consider using marinara sauce or a homemade tomato basil sauce. For a creamy twist, alfredo sauce can also work, although it will significantly change the dish's profile. Just ensure it complements the cheese filling well.
Can I freeze manicotti?
Absolutely! Before baking, cover the assembled manicotti with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time 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).