Tomato Manicotti
Creamy tomato manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with a cheesy mixture, baked in a rich tomato sauce with herbs and a blend of Italian cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour 1/2 cup of tomato sauce into a 2-quart shallow baking dish; set aside.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic, chopped parsley, instant minced onion, oregano, and marjoram to the beef; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cottage cheese and half of the shredded Jack cheese until well combined.
- Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the cheese mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the filled shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded Jack cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding ricotta cheese alongside the cottage cheese. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or even turkey for a lighter alternative. Fresh herbs like basil can enhance the flavor as well. Don't forget to taste the filling before stuffing the shells! This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes such as Nannar'S Tortellini Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti hot, garnished with additional parsley or basil for a fresh touch. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors nicely. For a heartier meal, pair it with garlic bread or a slice of crusty Italian bread. This dish also goes well with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Manicotti contains roughly 589 calories, with 22g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (141% of the Daily Value), and calcium (122% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 manicotti filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to stuff the manicotti shells and bake them right before serving to ensure they are warm and bubbly.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be good alternatives if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a mix of vegetables such as spinach and zucchini, seasoned well to match the original flavors.
How do I know when the manicotti is done baking?
The manicotti is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden. You can check by inserting a knife into the center; it should be hot throughout. If you want a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
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).