Introduction
Manicotti is a classic Italian dish featuring pasta tubes filled with a delightful mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering a satisfying and heartwarming meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Manicotti pasta – 12 tubes
Ricotta cheese – 15 ounces
Fresh spinach – 1 cup, cooked and chopped
Egg – 1 large
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup
Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
Marinara sauce – 3 cups
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time – 30 minutes
Total Time – 50 minutes
Yield – 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your manicotti will cook evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 3: Cook the Manicotti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the manicotti shells to the boiling water and cook for about 7-8 minutes until they are al dente. Drain the shells and let them cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, egg, and fresh herbs if using. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Fill the Manicotti
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Avoid overfilling, as the cheese will expand during baking.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Place the filled manicotti in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the filled shells, ensuring they are well covered.
Step 7: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the sauce covering the manicotti.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 9: Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Manicotti Shells
Ensure to use large manicotti shells as smaller pasta types will not work for this recipe.
Note 2: Sauce Variation
Feel free to use a store-bought marinara sauce instead of homemade if you’re short on time.
Note 3: Cheese Options
You can experiment with different types of cheese in the filling, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique flavor.
Note 4: Make Ahead
Prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if cooking from cold.
Note 5: Freezing
Manicotti can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Manicotti Shells
To prepare manicotti shells, boil them in salted water until just al dente. This ensures they hold up during the filling process without becoming too soft.
Filling the Manicotti
Use a piping bag or a sturdy plastic bag with a corner snipped off to easily fill the manicotti shells with cheese and spinach mixture.
Baking the Manicotti
Cover the filled manicotti with sauce and cheese before baking. This helps to keep the shells moist and enhances the flavor.
Allowing to Rest
After baking, let the manicotti rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve.
FAQ
Can I make the manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What type of cheese can I use for the filling?
You can use ricotta, mozzarella, or even cottage cheese for the filling, depending on your preference.
Can I freeze manicotti?
Yes, manicotti can be frozen. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish and cover well to prevent freezer burn.
What sauce pairs well with manicotti?
Marinara or alfredo sauce works well with manicotti, or you can use a blend of both for added flavor.
Conclusion
Manicotti is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit a variety of tastes. With its tender pasta shells and savory fillings, it serves as a perfect main course for gatherings or family dinners. Whether you prefer a classic ricotta filling or a more adventurous mix of ingredients, manicotti is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Ricotta Manicotti
Combine fresh spinach with ricotta cheese for a nutritious and flavorful filling. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a delightful baked dish.
Meat Lover’s Manicotti
Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the filling for a hearty option. A blend of cheeses and herbs will enhance the flavors, creating a comforting meal.
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Manicotti
For a gourmet twist, use sautéed mushrooms and creamy goat cheese as the filling. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction before serving to elevate the dish.
Vegetable Manicotti
Incorporate a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots into the filling. This colorful option is perfect for those looking for a meatless meal.
Pesto Manicotti
Mix basil pesto into the ricotta filling for a burst of flavor. Pair with a fresh tomato sauce to balance the richness of the pesto.
Alfredo Chicken Manicotti
Use shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent filling. Top with Parmesan and bake until golden and bubbly.