Before diving into the depths of our delicious manicotti recipe, let’s talk about what goes well alongside this delightful Italian dish. Wine, salad, and bread are excellent complements to manicotti.
Picture this: a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette, paired with a glass of Chianti, elevating your dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for something more hearty, garlic bread will soak up that scrumptious marinara sauce beautifully. Let’s not forget dessert! Ending your meal with a slice of tiramisu or a scoop of gelato will leave a lasting impression.
Today, I’m excited to share one of my favorite comfort foods: easy manicotti. Growing up, pasta was a staple in my household. It was more than just food; it was an experience—nights filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, a delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen.
Manicotti always stood out. The idea of pasta tubes stuffed to the brim with creamy ricotta and drizzled with marinara sauce always made my heart sing.
But here’s the kicker: creating this mouthwatering dish doesn’t have to take hours. With this easy manicotti recipe, you can whip up a delicious meal that dazzles without breaking a sweat. Ready to dig in? Let’s roll!
What is Easy Manicotti?
Easy manicotti is a simple yet elegant pasta dish made with tubular pasta shells stuffed with a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and other delightful ingredients. It is then baked to perfection in a rich sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
This dish is remarkably versatile, making it a favorite at family gatherings and dinner parties alike. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make this. Trust me; if I can do it, so can you!
Why This Recipe Works
When I stumbled upon this recipe, I was immediately drawn to its simplicity. But beyond that, here’s why it truly stands out:
- Quick Preparation: The entire process can be done in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both fancy and fast?
- Flavorful Fillings: The creamy ricotta, paired with the savory mozzarella and herbs, creates a rich filling that’s hard to resist. It’s like a delicious hug for your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredient Options: You can easily modify ingredients to fit dietary restrictions or personal preferences. Whether it’s adding spinach for health or swapping cheeses, the options are endless.
- Makes Great Leftovers: Leftovers from manicotti are just as tasty (if not better) the next day. You can simply pop it in the microwave, and — voilà! — a satisfying meal in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
- 1 package uncooked manicotti shells
- 1 jar of meatless marinara sauce (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely minced
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to go!
How To Make This Easy Manicotti?
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making easy manicotti. Follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring a plate of this deliciousness in no time.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your manicotti bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Manicotti Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-8 minutes. You want them slightly firm because they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 ounces of mozzarella, parmesan, white sugar, egg, nutmeg, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until it’s combined and creamy. This is where the magic starts!
Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti
Using a spoon or a piping bag (if you’re fancy), carefully fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture. Go slow; it’s all about the presentation!
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Next, arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara over the top, making sure each shell is covered.
Step 6: Sprinkle with Cheese and Bake
Top the manicotti with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your manicotti rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some insights I’ve picked up over the years to perfect your manicotti-making skills:
- Use a wide-mouth funnel: Filling the shells can get messy. A funnel helps to fill the manicotti easily without spilling.
- Be generous with the sauce: The sauce keeps the pasta moist while baking. It also adds a rich flavor!
- Mix in some veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers can elevate the filling. Don’t be shy to experiment!
- Top with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Make it a day ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge. Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple. Just cover any uneaten manicotti with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce to keep it moist. It tastes fantastic even after a day or two!
What Sides Would Complement Easy Manicotti?
Pairing sides can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic companion. Freshly baked garlic bread offers a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the soft manicotti.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and zesty dressing make this a refreshing addition that balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, roasted to perfection, add flavor and color to your plate.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Life happens. If you’re missing an ingredient, no worries! Here are some alternatives:
- Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese can serve as a substitute. Blend it for a smoother texture.
- Marinara Sauce: Store-bought pasta sauce works well. Or, you can use Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Provolone or gouda can add a nice flavor change if mozzarella isn’t available.
- Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs like Italian seasoning can work in a pinch. Just remember, they’re stronger, so use them sparingly!
Easy Manicotti Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 package uncooked manicotti shells
- 1 jar of meatless marinara sauce or homemade, if preferred
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon white sugar
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely minced
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your manicotti bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-8 minutes. You want them slightly firm because they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 ounces of mozzarella, parmesan, white sugar, egg, nutmeg, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until it’s combined and creamy. This is where the magic starts!
- Using a spoon or a piping bag (if you’re fancy), carefully fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture. Go slow; it’s all about the presentation!
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Next, arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara over the top, making sure each shell is covered.
- Top the manicotti with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let your manicotti rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Notes
- Use a wide-mouth funnel: Filling the shells can get messy. A funnel helps to fill the manicotti easily without spilling.
- Be generous with the sauce: The sauce keeps the pasta moist while baking. It also adds a rich flavor!
- Mix in some veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers can elevate the filling. Don’t be shy to experiment!
- Top with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Make it a day ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge. Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
As I put the finishing touches on my easy manicotti, I can’t help but feel a warm sense of nostalgia wash over me. This dish has brought joy to countless dinners, and each bite continues to remind me of treasured memories.
The beauty of manicotti is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or unleash your creativity with variations, it’s hard to go wrong.
So roll up your sleeves and give this easy manicotti a try. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to create memories in the kitchen, one delicious bite at a time. Happy cooking, and may your table always be filled with love and laughter!
