Indulge in the warmth and delight of a comforting stuffed manicotti dish that brings together smooth cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings families together. As you prepare this dish, you can almost feel the love and care that goes into every layer. Your kitchen will fill with tantalizing aromas, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into creating this delicious comfort food that is sure to impress.
Why We Love This Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
This stuffed manicotti recipe is a staple in many households for good reason. It balances textures and flavors beautifully, making each bite a delightful journey. The rich meat sauce, which combines crushed tomatoes with herbs, complements the creamy cheese filling that forms the heart of the manicotti. Each piece oozes with melted mozzarella and is irresistibly comforting, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. This recipe’s straightforward approach and delectable results make it a favorite for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it’s easy to customize, allowing you to make it your own!
Ingredients about Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 manicotti shells
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce Directions
To start making your comforting stuffed manicotti, heat up a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, carefully add the manicotti shells. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes or until they reach an al dente texture. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside as you prepare the filling and sauce.
In a skillet, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan as well. Using a wooden spoon, break up the meat and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light and flavorful.
Next, stir in the can of crushed tomatoes along with the dried basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and, if you enjoy a kick, the red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. The flavors will meld together, creating a deliciously rich meat sauce that serves as the perfect complement to the stuffed manicotti.
While the sauce simmers, prepare the cheese filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until you achieve a creamy and smooth consistency. This will be the luscious filling that goes into your manicotti shells.
Now comes the fun part! Take each manicotti shell and fill it with the cheese mixture you just prepared. You can use a spoon or, for more precision, a piping bag if you have one handy. It’s important to fill each shell generously but be careful not to overstuff them, as this can lead to bursting during baking.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the delicious meat sauce at the bottom. Place the filled manicotti shells on top of the sauce in a single layer. Once they are all snugly arranged, pour the remaining meat sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well covered. This will help the pasta to stay moist and flavor-packed while baking.
To finish it off, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, adding extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to become beautifully golden and bubbly.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before diving in. This brief waiting period allows everything to settle, making it easier for you to serve. Now, you’re ready to share this delightful dish!
How to Serve Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
You can serve this comforting stuffed manicotti in several delightful ways. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, which adds a pop of color and freshness. As you slice into the golden baked cheese, each portion reveals the rich filling and sumptuous meat sauce underneath. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Breadsticks or garlic bread are excellent additions, perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce. You could also serve some roasted vegetables on the side, adding even more color and nutrition to your dinner table. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience meant to be savored. Each bite takes you straight to comfort heaven!
Expert Tips: Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
Creating the perfect stuffed manicotti comes down to a few expert tips that can elevate your dish. First, ensure your manicotti shells are cooked just until al dente. This way, they maintain structure even after baking. It’s essential since overcooked shells tend to become mushy and may burst when filled.
When it comes to your meat sauce, feel free to get creative. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce if you want a veggie boost. Just sauté them alongside the meat to soften before adding the tomatoes and spices.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing different types of cheese in the filling. Adding a bit of mozzarella, Gouda, or even a splash of cream cheese can give your filling a delightful twist.
Lastly, let your stuffed manicotti rest for a few minutes after baking. This small step allows the cheese to firm up, making serving easier and preventing a chaotic cheese fountain when you cut into it.
How to Store Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
If you happen to have leftovers of your comforting stuffed manicotti, you’re in luck! Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap if you have baked it all in one dish, as this keeps the dish fresh longer. This way, you can easily reheat it for another meal later in the week.
When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options. You can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or reheat individual servings in the microwave. Just add a splash of water or sauce to avoid drying it out in the microwave.
If you want to prolong the life of your manicotti for even longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation of Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
While this comforting stuffed manicotti recipe is delicious as is, there are endless variations to keep your meal exciting. For a lighter version, replace the meat with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat. This not only reduces the calories but also packs on the nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
You may also experiment with different cheese blends. For example, swapping part of the ricotta for feta can add a tangy twist. Alternatively, try using different herbs and spices in the filling such as dill or thyme for a fresh flavor profile.
If you’re in the mood for a spicy kick, you can add fresh jalapeños or pepper jack cheese to the filling. Alternatively, mix in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach to make your dish more nutritious.
For a unique twist, consider baking the stuffed manicotti in a creamy sauce instead of a traditional red sauce. A white sauce made of cream cheese and heavy cream, perhaps with garlic and herbs, offers a different but equally delightful flavor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to cook manicotti shells?
The best method for cooking manicotti shells is to boil them in salted water until they are al dente. This means cooking them slightly less than fully tender. Be careful to avoid overcooking as they will continue to soften while baking.
Can I prepare stuffed manicotti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed manicotti a day ahead. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as chilled manicotti may take a little longer to heat through.
What can I serve with stuffed manicotti?
Stuffed manicotti pairs wonderfully with salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly, while garlic bread is ideal for sopping up excess sauce.
How can I make stuffed manicotti vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, artichokes, or even eggplant. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes to keep a similar texture and flavor profile.
Enjoy making this comforting stuffed manicotti recipe! It’s sure to become a beloved dish in your home, just as it has for many others. Happy cooking!
Stuffed Manicotti
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) for a kick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cheese Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus 1 cup for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
- 12 pieces manicotti shells
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Manicotti Shells
- Boil salted water in a large pot and add manicotti shells. Cook for 6-7 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
Cook the Meat Sauce
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy.
Stuff the Manicotti
- Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag, ensuring they are generously filled without overstuffing.
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish, place filled shells in a single layer, and top with remaining sauce and shredded mozzarella.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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