Easy Stuffed Manicotti is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With tender pasta tubes filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and smothered in rich marinara sauce, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

manicotti pasta ricotta cheese shredded mozzarella cheese grated Parmesan cheeseegg minced garlicchopped parsley saltblack peppermarinara sauceolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the pasta.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 40 minutesCooling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed spinach or chopped cooked spinach to the cheese filling for added greens.

Use a blend of Italian cheeses for more flavor depth.

Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta for a lighter option.

Top with fresh basil or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Try using a meat sauce instead of marinara for a heartier version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze unbaked or baked manicotti tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to fill manicotti?

Using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off makes filling easier and less messy.

Can I use no-boil manicotti?

Yes, but ensure they are fully covered in sauce and bake a bit longer to soften completely.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken can be mixed into the cheese filling.

Is ricotta necessary?

Ricotta is traditional, but you can substitute with cottage cheese or a thick béchamel sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free manicotti shells and confirm your marinara is gluten-free.

How do I prevent the shells from tearing?

Don’t overcook them and handle gently while filling.

What can I serve with manicotti?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables make great sides.

Can I freeze manicotti before baking?

Yes, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and freeze before baking. Thaw before cooking.

What kind of marinara should I use?

Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara—just ensure it’s flavorful and well-seasoned.

Conclusion

Easy Stuffed Manicotti is a rich, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings classic Italian comfort to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing it ahead for a busy weeknight or serving it for a casual dinner party, it’s a dependable favorite that always delivers delicious results.