The Best Cheese Manicotti Recipe
Description
This Cheese Manicotti is a comforting and indulgent dish that blends creamy, rich cheeses with Italian herbs and spices for a satisfying, savory meal. A favorite among college friends, it’s perfect for sharing or for keeping as leftovers, which taste just as wonderful the next day. With a few staple ingredients and simple steps, this manicotti is a delicious introduction to Italian-inspired home cooking.
Recipe Details
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 35 mins | 30 mins | 1 hr 5 mins |
| Category | Cuisine | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Dish Meal | Italian | 7 | 2 manicotti shells per serving |
| Keywords |
|---|
| Manicotti, Cheese, Italian, Savory, Oven-Baked, Dinner, Comfort Food |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, plus extra for topping |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Dried basil | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic (optional) | 1 clove, minced |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Manicotti shells | 14 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 443.4 | 30.1 g | 17.9 g | 107 mg | 762.9 mg | 15.2 g | 1.9 g | 7.4 g | 27.6 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Manicotti Shells
Begin by cooking the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente, ensuring they maintain their shape and are easy to fill. Drain in a colander, setting them aside to dry thoroughly. This step helps avoid breaking when filled. -
-
Mix the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 2 cups of mozzarella (reserving some for topping), and ¼ cup of parmesan cheese. Add a handful of additional mozzarella and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if you prefer a cheesier filling. -
Season the Filling
Season the cheese mixture generously with dried basil and Italian seasoning to bring out a robust Italian flavor profile. If you enjoy a bold taste, continue adding basil and seasoning until it’s just right. For a milder taste, start with 1 teaspoon each of basil and Italian seasoning. Add salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using) to taste for additional flavor. -
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the right temperature as you assemble the dish. -
Stuff the Shells
Once the shells have dried, begin filling each manicotti shell carefully with the cheese mixture. Use a small spoon to gently fill each shell without splitting. The cheese should fill the shell without spilling out. -
Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour half of the marinara sauce into a baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a base layer. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish over the marinara, placing them side by side. -
Add Sauce and Cheese Topping
Once the shells are arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are well-covered. Sprinkle any leftover mozzarella cheese over the marinara for a delicious cheesy topping. Finally, add a pinch of basil and Italian seasoning over the top for color and flavor. -
Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the cheese melts, creating a rich, creamy filling. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the foil and let the dish cool for a few minutes. Serve the manicotti warm, garnished with extra parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce before pouring it into the baking dish for a hint of spice.
- To Make Ahead: Assemble the manicotti up to a day in advance and refrigerate, covered. Bake when ready to serve for an easy, make-ahead meal.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian-inspired dinner.
