Manicotti is a classic Italian dish consisting of large pasta tubes stuffed with a savory filling, typically ricotta cheese and spinach, baked in marinara sauce. This recipe provides a straightforward approach to creating this comforting dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Manicotti
For the Manicotti:
- 1 box (8 ounces) manicotti pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Easy Manicotti
Preparing the Manicotti:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the manicotti pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Pasta: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cooked manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in a baking dish.
Making the Marinara Sauce:
- Saute Onion and Garlic: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Simmer with Tomatoes: Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Assembly and Baking:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Top with Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti shells in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot, with garlic bread or a side salad if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Manicotti Pasta: Large pasta tubes that are perfect for stuffing and baking, creating a hearty and satisfying dish.
Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy and slightly tangy filling that complements the pasta and marinara sauce beautifully.
Marinara Sauce: A classic Italian tomato sauce flavored with onions, garlic, and herbs, enhancing the flavors of the stuffed manicotti.
This easy manicotti recipe is a wonderful choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With a flavorful ricotta filling and a rich marinara sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade Italian cuisine with this simple and delicious dish!
