Sam'S Stuffed Manicotti With Meat Sauce
Hearty stuffed manicotti with savory meat sauce, combining ground meats, vegetables, and herbs for a comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground round and ground venison or pork.
- Add chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, chopped celery, crushed garlic, and crushed oregano to the meat.
- Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce.
- Simmer the mixture for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you don't have ground venison, ground turkey is a great low-fat alternative that pairs well with the other ingredients. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the dish if you have them on hand. Make sure to taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed manicotti with a side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich meat sauce. Garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the dish well. For a complete Italian meal, consider serving with a glass of red wine. This dish also pairs beautifully with Pollo Alla Salvia(Sage Chicken) for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sam'S Stuffed Manicotti With Meat Sauce contains roughly 884 calories, with 94g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (201% of the Daily Value), and protein (188% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the manicotti according to package instructions. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier meal.
What can I substitute for the ground round?
If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for ground round. They both absorb the flavors of the sauce nicely and are great alternatives in this stuffed pasta dish.
How do I know when the sauce is done?
The sauce is ready when it has thickened and the flavors have melded together. After simmering for 2 hours, taste it to ensure the flavors are balanced, adjusting seasoning as desired. A good sauce will have a rich, deep flavor.
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).