This baked cheese-stuffed manicotti is the ultimate comfort food, combining soft pasta shells with a rich, creamy filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Topped with tangy marinara sauce and baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a perfect dish for any pasta lover.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to feed a crowd or impress your family with a delicious homemade meal. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a satisfying, cheesy, and hearty dinner that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
- 1 (8 ounce) package manicotti shells
- 4 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook manicotti shells in boiling water until al dente, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Carefully stuff the cheese mixture into each manicotti shell.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the filled manicotti shells in the baking dish. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce and pour 1 cup of water around the edges of the dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 485 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Baked Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti
Italian cuisine has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a simple pasta dish or a sophisticated risotto, there’s something about the blend of flavors, aromas, and textures that provides comfort like no other. Among these delightful dishes, baked cheese-stuffed manicotti stands out as one of the most popular and heartwarming meals that any pasta lover would crave.
Baked cheese-stuffed manicotti is a classic Italian-American recipe that’s not only a family favorite but also a staple at gatherings and celebrations. It’s a dish that manages to be both simple and luxurious, combining pasta with rich, creamy cheese and tangy marinara sauce. The joy of biting into a soft, cheese-filled manicotti shell is a sensation that’s hard to beat. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, and its versatility allows home cooks to adapt the recipe to suit a wide range of dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
What is Manicotti?
Manicotti, an Italian word meaning “little sleeves,” is a form of tubular pasta that’s traditionally stuffed with a variety of fillings. Most commonly, it’s filled with cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella, along with herbs and seasonings. Manicotti shells are typically larger than other stuffed pasta like cannelloni, making them perfect for generously packed fillings. After being stuffed, the manicotti is covered in marinara or béchamel sauce and baked until bubbly and golden.
Why is Baked Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti So Popular?
Baked manicotti holds a special place in many kitchens for several reasons:
- Simplicity with a Gourmet Twist: The recipe involves everyday ingredients that are easy to find, yet the result is a dish that feels fancy enough to serve for a special occasion.
- Rich, Creamy Texture: The filling combines ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a decadent, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both adults and children. The cheesy filling and comforting pasta make it a go-to for family dinners.
- Customizable: While traditional manicotti is filled with cheese, the recipe can easily be adapted to include meat, vegetables, or even vegan alternatives.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Baked manicotti can be prepared in advance, refrigerated, and simply popped in the oven before serving, making it a convenient option for busy nights or entertaining.
History of Manicotti
Although manicotti as we know it is deeply rooted in Italian-American cooking, it traces back to traditional Italian cuisine. In Italy, similar dishes have been prepared for centuries. The concept of stuffing pasta with cheese, meat, or vegetables and baking it dates back to the Renaissance. Early versions of manicotti were made with thin crepes rather than pasta and stuffed with a variety of fillings.
Manicotti as it’s known today became a beloved staple in Italian-American households in the 20th century. Italian immigrants adapted the recipe using dried pasta shells rather than crepes, which were more time-consuming to make. The dish evolved into a family favorite for holidays, Sunday dinners, and potlucks due to its ease of preparation and rich, satisfying flavors.
Tips for Customizing Baked Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti
One of the great things about manicotti is how easily customizable it is. Here are some creative ways to modify the recipe:
- Add Spinach or Other Greens: For a healthier version or simply to add some color and nutrients, you can mix in cooked spinach, kale, or Swiss chard with the cheese filling. The greens add a delightful earthiness and a pop of color that pairs well with the creamy cheese.
- Meat Options: If you prefer a heartier dish, try adding ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken to the filling. Italian sausage, in particular, adds a nice kick of spice that complements the cheesy filling and marinara sauce beautifully.
- Vegetable Variations: In addition to spinach, you can incorporate sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more nutritious.
- Vegan Alternatives: For those who avoid dairy, there are plenty of vegan options available. Use plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan to achieve a similar creamy filling. You can also make your own cashew-based ricotta for a homemade touch.
- Spice It Up: For a more flavorful and bold filling, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, roasted garlic, or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. These small tweaks add depth and a unique twist to the classic recipe.
Variations on Manicotti
While the traditional baked cheese-stuffed manicotti recipe is a hit on its own, you can try different variations to suit your taste:
- Manicotti Florentine: This variation incorporates spinach into the cheese filling. It’s a great way to add some greens while keeping the dish rich and creamy.
- Manicotti with Meat Sauce: Instead of marinara, you can use a robust meat sauce made with ground beef or Italian sausage. The savory meat balances the richness of the cheese and adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Seafood Manicotti: For a more luxurious twist, try adding shrimp, crab, or lobster to the filling. Seafood manicotti pairs beautifully with a creamy Alfredo sauce or a light tomato sauce.
- Pesto Manicotti: Swap out the marinara for a vibrant pesto sauce, or mix some pesto into the cheese filling. The fresh, herby flavors of basil and garlic make for a refreshing take on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving baked cheese-stuffed manicotti, there are plenty of ways to round out the meal and enhance the experience:
- Garlic Bread: No pasta dish is complete without a side of garlic bread. The crispy, buttery texture pairs perfectly with the soft, cheesy pasta.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the manicotti. You can add tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for extra flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts as a side. The slight bitterness of the roasted veggies complements the cheesy, creamy pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Barbera pairs wonderfully with baked manicotti. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese and complements the tomato sauce.
Making Manicotti Ahead of Time
One of the best things about baked manicotti is how well it can be prepared in advance. If you’re hosting a dinner or simply want to make weeknight meals easier, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe. You can also freeze unbaked manicotti for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
Baked cheese-stuffed manicotti is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a holiday celebration, or a gathering with friends, this dish always hits the mark. The combination of tender pasta, rich, creamy cheese filling, and tangy marinara sauce is a winning combination that’s both satisfying and heartwarming.
Not only is manicotti easy to prepare, but its versatility makes it a favorite for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or put your own spin on it with vegetables, meat, or different sauces, baked manicotti is sure to impress. Plus, with the convenience of making it ahead of time, this dish is a lifesaver for busy nights or special occasions when you want to serve something comforting and delicious.
So next time you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish, give baked cheese-stuffed manicotti a try. Its rich flavors, customizable filling, and ease of preparation make it a true classic that will continue to be a favorite for generations to come.