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Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce

Irresistibly Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce

This Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce is a comforting Italian classic that gathers everyone around the table.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti
  • 12 pieces Manicotti Shells Prepackaged shells save time and ensure even cooking.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Forms the hearty protein base; swap for lean turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Enhances flavor depth; use ground turkey sausage for a leaner variation.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and aroma; shallots can provide a milder touch.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic delivers the best taste; use it for maximum flavor.
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce The sauce base; jarred or homemade varieties work beautifully here.
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese This creates a creamy and smooth filling; cottage cheese can serve as an excellent substitute.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Offers the gooey, melty goodness every cheesy stuffed manicotti deserves.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor; Pecorino Romano can be used for a tangier taste.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the filling together; for a vegan option, consider using aquafaba.
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile of both filling and sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile of both filling and sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add salt, and cook manicotti shells for 6-7 minutes until al dente, then drain and cool.
  3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage with chopped onion for about 8 minutes, then add garlic and sauté for one more minute. Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  5. Spread half of the meat sauce in a baking dish, fill each manicotti shell with ricotta mixture, and place shells seam-side down in the dish.
  6. Pour remaining meat sauce over filled shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  7. After 30 minutes, remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Assemble and freeze for up to 3 months before baking.

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