There’s something undeniably inviting about a plate of stuffed manicotti smothered in savory meat sauce and bubbly cheese. This Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce brings together classic Italian flavors that warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. You can make this simple yet delicious dish any night of the week, allowing you and your loved ones to gather around the table and enjoy a comforting meal together.
Why We Love This Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
This recipe stands out for its heartwarming nature and delightful blend of flavors. The combination of tender manicotti shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and topped with a rich meat sauce creates a beautiful harmony of textures and tastes. It’s perfect for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Each bite delivers comfort and satisfaction, ensuring you feel at home. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, allowing you to save precious moments during busy evenings.
Ingredients about Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
Here’s what you will need to whip up this delightful Comforting Stuffed Manicotti recipe. Gather the following ingredients for the perfect balance of savory goodness.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 manicotti shells
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How to Make Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce Directions
Making this Comforting Stuffed Manicotti is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Cook the Manicotti Shells: To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook them for about 6-7 minutes until they are al dente. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water. This halts the cooking process and prevents them from sticking together. Set the shells aside for later use.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage. As they cook, use a wooden spoon to break them up into small pieces. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until they become softened and aromatic.
- Once the onion and garlic are fragrant, it’s time to add in the crushed tomatoes along with the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Stir everything together, reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully, so don’t rush this step.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until the ingredients are well blended and creamy. This filling will provide a delectable contrast to the savory meat sauce.
- Fill the Manicotti Shells: You can use a pastry bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the ricotta mixture into each manicotti shell. If you don’t have either, a spoon works just as well, though it may take a bit more patience!
- Assemble the Dish: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Then, carefully arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer on top. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the shells, ensuring they’re completely covered. Finish off by sprinkling some shredded mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and allow the dish to bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese has melted and starts to bubble.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the manicotti to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to blend together and makes it easier to dish out the pasta.
How to Serve Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
Serving your Comforting Stuffed Manicotti can be as straightforward or fancy as you like. For a casual family dinner, simply scoop generous portions onto each plate. You might want to garnish the plates with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan to enhance the dish’s visual appeal. Pair with a side salad for a refreshing touch to balance the rich flavors of the meal.
If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider serving the manicotti in the baking dish as a communal dish. It encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests will appreciate the hearty flavors, and the dish will likely be the star of the evening!
Expert Tips: Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and good-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients heighten the flavor and make your dish taste more authentic.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensuring your pasta is cooked al dente helps it hold its shape during assembly and baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the manicotti ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. This can save time on busy weeknights.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add a bit of spinach or finely chopped vegetables into the ricotta mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
How to Store Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
If you have leftovers or want to prepare your Comforting Stuffed Manicotti ahead of time, storing it properly is essential to maintain its flavors. Allow the baked manicotti to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation which can make the pasta soggy.
Stored in the refrigerator, your manicotti will be good for about 3 to 4 days. If you wish to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Variation of Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce
There are endless ways to customize your Comforting Stuffed Manicotti to suit your taste preferences! Here are a few delightful variations you might consider:
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the ground beef or sausage with roasted vegetables or a blend of mushrooms. You can mix in some sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a colorful, nutritious option.
- Cheesy goodness: Consider adding cream cheese or feta cheese to the filling for an extra creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or top with a spicy marinara sauce for an added kick.
- Different Sauces: Although this recipe features an easy meat sauce, feel free to experiment with different sauces like Alfredo or pesto for a unique twist.
FAQ
What is Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce best served with?
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even a light soup to balance the richness of the manicotti.
Can I make Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
How long does Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce last in the fridge?
Your manicotti will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce?
Yes! You can freeze it. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
With this Comforting Stuffed Manicotti Recipe with Easy Meat Sauce, you can effortlessly create a family favorite that brings everyone together. Happy cooking!
Comforting Stuffed Manicotti
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Choose your preference for meat.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For a hint of heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta
- 12 pieces manicotti shells
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- to taste extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Manicotti Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil.
- Add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-7 minutes until al dente.
- Drain the shells and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Making the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage and break them up while cooking until browned.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Preparing the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well blended and creamy.
Assembling the Dish
- Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pipe the ricotta mixture into each manicotti shell.
- Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Cover the shells with remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and optional Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent browning and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Allow the manicotti to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan, if desired.
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