Creamy Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description: This delightful dish is a perfect option for a satisfying meatless meal, though I often find it pairs beautifully with some Italian sausage to appease my meat-loving husband. The addition of chopped mushrooms to the sauce enhances its flavor, making it even more delectable. This recipe is adapted from a classic Better Homes recipe, ensuring both taste and tradition shine through.
Recipe Category: Manicotti
Keywords: Cheese, European, Savory, Brunch, Oven, Stove Top, Less than 4 Hours
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green onion | 8 |
| Garlic | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 1 1/3 cups |
| Swiss cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Dry white wine | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Lemon rind (zested) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/8 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information Table (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 35.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 168.8 mg |
| Sodium | 573.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 1.4 g |
| Protein | 30.2 g |
Instructions Table
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by cooking the manicotti according to the package directions, ensuring that they are not overcooked, as this can cause them to split while you are filling them. Once cooked, drain and set aside. |
| 2 | For the sauce, in a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped green onions and minced garlic, cooking until they are tender and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the flour, blending it well with the butter and onion mixture. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Incorporate the Swiss cheese and dry white wine, stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. |
| 3 | In a separate bowl, combine the egg, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and ground nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended. |
| 4 | Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture using a small teaspoon or a piping bag for easier handling. Place the filled manicotti in a greased 12x7x2 inch baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. |
| 5 | Pour the prepared cheese sauce generously over the stuffed manicotti, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the manicotti is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. |
| 6 | Once baked, remove the foil and allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. This creamy cheese-stuffed manicotti can be garnished with additional parsley or grated cheese, if desired. Enjoy this deliciously satisfying meal, whether served alone or alongside some flavorful Italian sausage. |
Serving Suggestions:
For an enhanced dining experience, consider pairing this creamy cheese-stuffed manicotti with a simple side salad of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up the rich cheese sauce.
Conclusion:
This creamy cheese-stuffed manicotti is not only a delightful addition to your meal rotation but also a great way to impress guests with your culinary skills. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant brunch, this dish delivers on flavor and ease, making it a beloved favorite for any occasion.
