Manicotti shells –Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a delightful dish that’s sure to impress? Let’s dive into the luscious world of manicotti! This Italian favorite features pasta tubes filled with a rich and creamy cheese filling, baked to perfection in a zesty marinara sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Manicotti
This beautiful manicotti dish not only pleases the eye but also tantalizes the taste buds. Let’s get started with this delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 12 manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling—these shells are made to be bursting with flavor!
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are generously covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color!
This rich, cheesy manicotti will have everyone coming back for seconds! Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every mouthful of this Italian classic!