This Easy Cheesy Manicotti is a simple yet satisfying dish that's sure to please. The pasta tubes are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, seasoned with fresh parsley and a touch of salt and pepper. Topped with marinara sauce and a layer of gooey mozzarella, this baked pasta dish is perfect for any occasion. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
This Easy Cheesy Manicotti recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in or a special family dinner. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce makes this dish a favorite for cheese lovers.
INGREDIENTS
- Manicotti: 8 pieces, cooked according to package instructions, then cooled and dried on parchment paper.
- Marinara Sauce: 24 ounces, use your favorite flavor, divided.
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces, smooth and creamy.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded, plus extra for topping if desired.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated, adds a nutty flavor.
- Eggs: 2 large, helps to bind the filling.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped, plus more for garnish, adds freshness.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, to taste.
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the warm, gooey satisfaction of a well-made pasta dish. Our Easy Cheesy Manicotti is a delightful combination of rich cheeses and savory marinara sauce, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or just craving a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing the manicotti. Cook the pasta tubes according to the package instructions. Be sure to boil them in a large pot of salted water until they are al dente, as overcooking can cause them to break when filling. Once cooked, drain them carefully and lay them out on parchment paper to cool and dry. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and make the stuffing process easier.
- Step 2:
- While the manicotti cools, prepare the cheese filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything together until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. This mixture should be creamy and well-seasoned, forming the delicious core of your manicotti.
- Step 3:
- Next, assemble the dish. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about half of the total amount) on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish that has been lightly coated with cooking spray. This base layer of sauce helps prevent the pasta from sticking and adds moisture during baking.
- Step 4:
- Fill the manicotti tubes with the cheese mixture. You can use a small spoon, your fingers, or a piping bag for this task. If using a spoon or your fingers, gently pack the filling into one end of the tube, then flip the tube and fill the other end to ensure it's completely stuffed. If using a piping bag, cut a small tip and pipe the filling into the tubes. Be careful not to overfill, as the cheese will expand during baking.
- Step 5:
- Place the filled manicotti in a single layer over the marinara sauce in the prepared baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the manicotti. Make sure each piece is well-covered, as this will help keep the pasta moist and flavorful.
- Step 6:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil, sealing the edges tightly to trap in moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This baking time allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the pasta is fully cooked.
- Step 7:
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, if desired. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil it for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Step 8:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the cheese filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
For the best experience, serve the Easy Cheesy Manicotti fresh out of the oven, while the cheese is still hot and gooey. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and garlic bread, making it a complete and satisfying meal. To add a bit of freshness and color, garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
If you have leftovers, allow the manicotti to cool to room temperature before storing. Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply cover the manicotti with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, individual portions can be microwaved until warm.
If you prefer to freeze the manicotti, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the dish as instructed, but do not bake. Instead, cover the unbaked manicotti tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Label and date the dish, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Helpful Notes
Here are some helpful variations and substitutions for the Easy Cheesy Manicotti:
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding finely chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini to the cheese filling.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. For a tangier flavor, try adding goat cheese or feta to the filling.
- Make It Meaty: For a heartier dish, include cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken in the filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free manicotti shells and ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Giada De Laurentiis: "Always use fresh herbs when possible. They add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs just can't match."
- Mario Batali: "Don't be afraid to mix cheeses. A combination of different textures and flavors can elevate a simple dish like manicotti."
- Lidia Bastianich: "Let the manicotti rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier."