Easy Baked Manicotti Recipe π
Overview:
This Easy Baked Manicotti recipe is a delightful meatless meal option, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. You can even switch things up by adding a meat sauce if you prefer a heartier dish. Paired with a crisp salad, some warm garlic bread, and a glass of your favorite red wine, this meal is sure to impress!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 695.8
- Rating: βββββ
Ingredients:
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 4 cups spaghetti sauce
Instructions:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). |
| 2 | Prepare baking dish: Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. |
| 3 | Cook pasta: Cook manicotti pasta according to package directions until al dente. |
| 4 | Dry pasta: Let cooked pasta shells dry on paper towels. |
| 5 | Prepare filling: In a medium bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese with ricotta cheese, dried basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well. |
| 6 | Stuff pasta shells: Using a teaspoon, carefully stuff each manicotti pasta shell with the cheese mixture. |
| 7 | Layer sauce: Spoon 2 cups of spaghetti sauce into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. |
| 8 | Arrange stuffed shells: Place the stuffed manicotti shells over the sauce in the baking dish. |
| 9 | Top with sauce: Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. |
| 10 | Add cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish. |
| 11 | Bake: Bake the manicotti in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. |
| 12 | Final touch: Sprinkle grated Parmesan and Romano cheese over the top of the dish, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and slightly crispy. |
| 13 | Serve: Remove the baked manicotti from the oven and serve immediately, piping hot and delicious! |
Tips:
- To save time, prepare the filling while the pasta is cooking.
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this Easy Baked Manicotti with your loved ones for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite! π΄β¨
