Description

This classic Manicotti Recipe features tender pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy ricotta cheese filling, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a comforting Italian-American dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

8 manicotti pasta shells
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook manicotti shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
Place filled shells in the prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

You can prepare the manicotti up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner cut off for easier filling.
Add spinach or cooked ground meat to the filling for variation.
Let rest for a few minutes after baking before serving.