Meat Stuffed Manicotti
A hearty Italian dish featuring stuffed manicotti shells filled with seasoned meat, cheese, and bread, baked in a rich meat sauce for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions.
- Prepare the meat filling by mixing cooked ground meat, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, bread cubes, and milk. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
- Stuff each cooked manicotti shell with the meat mixture.
- Spread Ragu with meat sauce in a baking dish and place the stuffed shells on top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter filling, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. If you don't have Ragu, any meat-based pasta sauce will work. To prevent the shells from breaking, handle them gently while cooking. If you're short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat stuffed manicotti with a side of Easy Romaine Salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty Italian bread pairs well, soaking up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup. This dish also complements a glass of red wine for a perfect dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. It's best to add a splash of water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Stuffed Manicotti contains roughly 2412 calories, with 47g protein, 411g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (94% of the Daily Value), calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1593mg per serving (69% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed manicotti in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you need a substitute for mozzarella, provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses like fontina and asiago can work well. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese that melts well. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to the cheese's consistency.
Can I freeze the stuffed manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed manicotti before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding some extra time if still cold.
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).