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Manicotti Recipe Recipe

Manicotti Recipe

A classic Italian dish featuring pasta shells filled with a creamy cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Broiling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Manicotti
  • 10 pieces manicotti shells boil extra in case some break
  • 15 oz. ricotta cheese
  • ¾ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded and divided
  • 5 tablespoons cream cheese softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 24 oz. marinara sauce
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Equipment

  • 9 x 13 inch casserole dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°.
  2. Reserve 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese for the top of the manicotti.
  3. Combine the ricotta, Parmesan cheese, remaining mozzarella, cream cheese, eggs, garlic, and seasonings in a large bowl. Set aside in the fridge.
  4. Boil shells in salted water for 1-2 minutes less than al dente, set a timer to avoid overcooking them. Drain in a colander and gently rinse with cold water until the shells are cool. Set aside.
  5. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish.
  6. Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each manicotti shell, letting a little extend over the top. Transfer the filled shells to the casserole dish.
  7. Top with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover and bake for 25 minutes. Remove cover and bake for 10 more minutes. If desired, broil at 425° for 1 minute, watch it carefully during this time. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Garlic Bread with Cheese!

Notes

For best results, use fresh mozzarella and high-quality marinara sauce. Ensure the manicotti shells are not overcooked to prevent breaking during filling.