Stuffed Manicotti Pastas
Stuffed Manicotti Pastas feature tender pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, mushrooms, cheese, and seasonings. This hearty dish offers rich flavors and gooey cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy comforting Italian-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck and diced onion in a skillet; drain excess fat and let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion with crumbled bread slices, milk, egg, drained mushrooms, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, garlic salt, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stuff the mixture into cooked manicotti pasta shells and bake as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the stuffing mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground chuck. Using whole wheat manicotti shells can add a bit more fiber to the meal. Additionally, feel free to incorporate spinach or other sautéed vegetables into the filling for a nutritious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed manicotti with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra mozzarella on top before baking can enhance the cheesy goodness. This dish pairs beautifully with Garden Medley Spaghetti for a delightful Italian feast. For a lighter option, consider a simple marinara sauce drizzled over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they're heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Manicotti Pastas contains roughly 922 calories, with 22g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (134% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1414mg per serving (61% 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 stuffed manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed manicotti a day in advance. Assemble the stuffed shells and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
What can I use if I don't have manicotti shells?
If you don't have manicotti shells, you can use large pasta shells instead. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up during the stuffing process. Another option is to layer the filling in a baking dish with lasagna noodles, creating a baked pasta dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of stuffed manicotti, simply replace the ground chuck with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Adding herbs and spices will enhance the flavor and create a delicious meatless option.
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).