Meat Manicotti
Meat Manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with savory seasoned beef and cheese, baked in rich tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use an 8 or 9 x 4-inch casserole dish.
- Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions.
- Saute ground beef in olive oil until browned.
- Mix the cooked beef thoroughly with beaten egg, grated Pecorino Romano, seasoned bread crumbs, chopped parsley, and seasonings to taste.
- Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the beef mixture.
- Cover the bottom of the casserole with spaghetti sauce.
- Arrange the stuffed manicotti over the sauce and cover with remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef. You can also add ricotta cheese for creaminess. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of meat. Be cautious not to overcook the manicotti shells; they should be al dente for best texture after baking. Serve with Neapolitan Spaghetti Sauce for a classic pairing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Pecorino Romano on top before serving enhances the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Meatball Minestrone Soup for a hearty Italian feast. Consider offering a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be mindful not to overheat as it can dry out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Manicotti contains roughly 968 calories, with 24g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 867mg per serving (38% 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 the manicotti in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. If baking from cold, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use if I don’t have Pecorino Romano?
If you don't have Pecorino Romano, you can substitute it with Parmesan cheese, which will provide a similar salty flavor. For a different twist, try using a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a gooey texture.
Is it possible to freeze stuffed manicotti?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed manicotti before baking. Just ensure they are in a single layer and well-covered to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, you can cook them from frozen, but add extra baking time to ensure they are heated thoroughly.
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).