Today, we’re diving into a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends: manicotti! This Italian-American classic is perfect for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or even a special occasion. With tender pasta tubes filled with creamy cheese and topped with rich marinara sauce, manicotti is a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s get started on making this delightful dish!
Manicotti
Here’s a beautiful look at what we’re going to prepare. It’s not only a feast for the stomach but also for the eyes!
Ingredients
To create this cheesy delight, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 manicotti shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your very own manicotti:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, the egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. Be generous — you want each shell to be fully loaded with flavor!
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the manicotti, making sure each shell is well coated. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
And there you have it! Your homemade manicotti is ready to enjoy. Serve it with some garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal. This dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Bon appétit!