Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce

There’s something about the aroma of marinara sauce simmering on the stove that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. As a child, I would eagerly await those family gatherings where we’d indulge in legions of pasta dishes, but there was always one that made our mouths water in anticipation: stuffed manicotti. It wasn’t just the mouthwatering flavors of the ricotta and meat, or the way the melted cheese glistened invitingly; it was the love, laughter, and stories that accompanied each serving, making it a dish etched in my memory forever.

So, let me take you on a culinary journey with my recipe for Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce that will fill your home with warmth and deliciousness. Whether you’re hosting friends or sharing a cozy meal with family, this dish epitomizes comfort food at its finest.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 30 minutes
• Active Cooking: 45 minutes
• Total Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 6
• Complexity: Moderate

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: 500
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fats: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Sodium: 900mg

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce

If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in pasta form, look no further. Each bite of stuffed manicotti offers a delightful contrast between the hearty meat filling and the rich, creamy cheeses. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, the satisfaction of crafting such a comforting dish from scratch is immensely rewarding. The best part? It’s an excellent make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day!

The Complete Cooking Journey

As we walk through the steps of this recipe, imagine the satisfaction of filling those manicotti tubes with a delicious blend of flavors and ending with a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece hot out of the oven.

Ingredients:

• 12 manicotti pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your manicotti bakes evenly and comes out perfectly melty.

Step 2: Cook the Manicotti Shells

In a large pot, cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy filling.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step is key in layering flavors in your sauce.

Step 5: Season the Filling

Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat. The aromas will be irresistible!

Step 6: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Add the cooked meat mixture and stir until evenly mixed. This creamy blend is the heart of your manicotti.

Step 7: Stuff the Manicotti

Spoon the cheese and meat filling into each manicotti shell, using a small spoon or your fingers to gently stuff them. Place filled shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 8: Sauce It Up

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti, ensuring that all shells are covered. The sauce adds a lovely moisture and richness to the dish.

Step 9: Sprinkle the Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce for that glorious cheese pull everyone loves.

Step 10: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps steam the manicotti and ensures it’s cooked through.

Step 11: Uncover and Brown

After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 12: Cool and Garnish

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish each serving with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve this stuffed manicotti with a side of garlic bread to soak up all that delicious marinara sauce and a simple green salad dressed in light vinaigrette. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the richness of this dish.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

You can store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. It’s almost as tasty as when it first came out of the oven!

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• For Easy Stuffing: Use a piping bag or a plastic zip-top bag with the corner cut off to quickly fill the pasta shells without a mess.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the manicotti a day before and bake it just before serving.
• Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Adding extra mozzarella on top not only enhances flavor but also creates that cheesy crust everyone loves.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian filling.
• Cheesy Version: Mix in a blend of various cheeses like ricotta, feta, or even goat cheese for a different taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy variation that packs a punch.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Q: Can I use other pasta shapes instead of manicotti?

   • A: Absolutely! Shells, ziti, or even lasagna sheets can all work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Q: How can I make this gluten-free?

   • A: Look for gluten-free manicotti shells or make your own from gluten-free flour. Ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

3. Q: Can I freeze the stuffed manicotti?

   • A: Yes! Assemble and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

4. Q: What to serve with stuffed manicotti?

   • A: A light salad and some garlic bread pair perfectly with this dish.

5. Q: How do I know when the manicotti is done?

   • A: It’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, and the sauce is steaming.

Wrapping Up

Now that you have the complete journey to crafting delicious Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create a meal bursting with love and flavor. Gather your loved ones around the table, share stories, and dig into each cheesy, savory bite. Cooking is not only about the food but the memories and connections you make along the way. Happy cooking!

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