Suzanne'S Manicotti With Beef
Suzanne's Manicotti with Beef offers a hearty, cheesy filling combined with savory meat and rich sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with garlic powder and drain excess fat.
- Add cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, salt, and mayonnaise; mix well.
- Cook manicotti shells as directed on the package, then drain and cool on wax paper.
- Stuff each shell with the beef mixture and place in a lasagna-sized baking dish.
- Cover the stuffed shells with spaghetti sauce.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and oregano on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey for beef and using low-fat cottage cheese. You can also swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. To prevent the manicotti shells from breaking, be gentle when stuffing them. If you're short on time, pre-made spaghetti sauce works well too. Explore similar Italian recipes to find variations that suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Suzanne's Manicotti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light Italian dressing on the salad complements the rich flavors of the manicotti. Pair it with a glass of red wine to enhance the dining experience. For a twist, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Suzanne'S Manicotti With Beef contains roughly 959 calories, with 56g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (155% of the Daily Value), protein (112% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1595mg 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 use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses based on your preference. Ricotta cheese can be used instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture, and you can experiment with different types of shredded cheese, such as provolone or a spicy pepper jack, for added flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of manicotti, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a blend of your favorite vegetables. You can also add some chopped nuts or lentils for added protein, creating a delicious and hearty meal without meat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti ahead of time. Just prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).