Stuffed Manicotti With Four Cheeses
Creamy stuffed manicotti filled with a four-cheese blend, savory sausage, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. manicotti (uncooked) ⓘ
- 1/2 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 6 oz. can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon sugar ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 pound sausage ⓘ
- 28 oz. can diced tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 15 oz. container Ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Provolone cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the manicotti as package directs; drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown and drain the sausage.
- Add chopped onion and cook until tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine Ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded Mozzarella, Provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
- Mix well and stuff the cooked manicotti with the cheese mixture.
- Place stuffed manicotti in a baking dish, pour sauce over, and top with remaining Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and cheese is golden, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a beaten egg to the cheese mixture, which helps bind it together. If you don't have manicotti, jumbo shells can be a suitable substitute. Experiment with using different cheeses based on your preference; for example, adding a touch of goat cheese can enhance the flavor. This recipe also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed manicotti hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Zesty Italian Wontons for a fun appetizer or as part of a larger Italian feast. A glass of red wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal. Make sure to add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Manicotti With Four Cheeses contains roughly 935 calories, with 38g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2676mg per serving (116% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed manicotti and assemble it in the baking dish ahead of time. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for sausage?
If you prefer a meatless option, you can substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a blend of roasted vegetables. For a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can work well too. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavors of the chosen substitute.
How do I know when the manicotti is done baking?
The manicotti is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and it should have a slightly golden color. If you're unsure, you can insert a knife into the center to ensure it's heated through. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
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).