Baked Manicotti Recipe – A Romantic & Comforting Italian Classic
There’s something truly special about the rich, cheesy goodness of Baked Manicotti. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a cozy family meal, or searching for Recipes That Last a Week, this Traditional Manicotti Recipe is a guaranteed winner.
With tender manicotti pasta shells filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked under a blanket of flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is a comforting Italian favorite. The warm, rustic ambiance of candlelight and a beautifully set table enhances the experience, making this dish perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Let’s bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen with this simple yet elegant 3 Cheese Manicotti Recipe!
Recipe Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4–6 Servings |
Ingredients for My Baked Manicotti Recipe
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pro Tips for Success
- Cook pasta al dente – Slightly undercook the manicotti shells so they hold their shape when filling and baking.
- Use a piping bag or spoon – A piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off) makes filling the shells easier and less messy.
- Layer the sauce generously – Prevents the pasta from drying out and infuses extra flavor.
- Cover while baking – Keeps the moisture in and ensures the cheese filling stays soft and creamy.
- Let it rest before serving – Helps the cheese filling set and enhances the overall taste.
Tools Required
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Spoon or piping bag for filling
- Aluminum foil
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Cottage cheese | Ricotta cheese | Lighter, slightly tangy taste |
| Provolone cheese | Mozzarella cheese | Richer, sharper cheese flavor |
| Meat sauce | Marinara sauce | Adds a heartier taste |
| Spinach or kale | Parsley | Extra nutrients and texture |
| Ground beef or bacon | No meat (vegetarian) | Adds a smoky, savory twist |
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Baked Manicotti
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the Manicotti Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the manicotti pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the Manicotti Shells
- Spoon the cheese mixture into a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner cut).
- Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the pasta.
6. Bake the Manicotti
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with extra mozzarella or Parmesan, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Garnish
- Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Manicotti
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Crispy and buttery, perfect for dipping. |
| Caesar Salad | Adds a refreshing crunch to the meal. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Brings balance and color to the plate. |
| Italian Red Wine (Chianti) | Complements the cheesy, tomato-rich dish. |
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the manicotti without baking and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in protein – Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan contribute to a protein-packed meal.
- Rich in calcium – Great for bone health.
- Vegetarian-friendly – A meatless yet satisfying dish.
- Customizable – Easily add vegetables or meat for extra nutrition.
Suggested Drink That Pairs with the Dish
Pair this Baked Manicotti with a glass of Chianti – a smooth, medium-bodied Italian red wine with bright acidity that enhances the tomato sauce and cheese filling. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing sparkling Italian lemonade to balance the richness of the dish.
Enjoy
This Baked Manicotti Recipe is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re serving it for a romantic candlelit dinner or a family-style Italian feast, it’s sure to impress. The combination of creamy ricotta filling, savory marinara sauce, and bubbling cheese makes every bite a delight.
Gather your loved ones, set the table with flickering candles, and enjoy the warmth of this classic Italian dish. Buon appetito! 🇮🇹 🍽️
