Stuffed Manicotti
Stuffed Manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with a savory meat mixture, baked in rich spaghetti sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This hearty dish offers a comforting blend of flavors perfect for family dinners or special occasions, combining Italian classics with easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat, garlic, salt, pepper, soaked bread pieces, and egg in a bowl.
- Fill the manicotti noodles with the meat mixture.
- Place the filled manicotti in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with the entire jar of spaghetti sauce and top with grated mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until noodles are very tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley with the meat filling. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made filling options, such as ricotta cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses, for a vegetarian version. Ensure the manicotti is well-stuffed to prevent it from splitting during baking. Pair this with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed manicotti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like Tomato Basil Linguine or Zucchini Paisano for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Manicotti contains roughly 142 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1384mg per serving (60% 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 the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just remember to fill the manicotti and bake them the next day for the best results.
What can I substitute for ground meat?
For a vegetarian option, you can use lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a mix of beans and vegetables as a substitute for ground meat. This will give you a hearty filling while keeping the dish meat-free.
How do I prevent the manicotti from breaking while filling?
To avoid breaking the manicotti noodles, boil them just until al dente and let them cool slightly before handling. Using a piping bag or a spoon can also help in filling them gently without applying too much pressure.
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).