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Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce

Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce for Cozy Family Nights

A delightful Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce recipe that combines cheesy baked pasta with a savory filling, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti
  • 12 pieces Manicotti pasta shells Cooked to al dente
For the Filling
  • 1 pound Ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Can be replaced with ground meat
  • 1 cup Chopped onion Shallots can be used for milder taste
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic Fresh is best, dried works in a pinch
  • 15 ounces Ricotta cheese Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Consider adding Parmesan for additional flavor
  • 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Use aged for robust flavor
  • 1 large Egg Can be omitted for dairy-free option
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Dried basil Fresh herbs preferred
For the Sauce
  • 4 cups Marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped parsley Adds freshness and color

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Piping bag
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, cook the manicotti shells until al dente (7-9 minutes), drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
  5. Season the mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
  6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the meat mixture; add the egg and mix until smooth.
  7. Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese and meat mixture and place in the baking dish.
  8. Pour marinara sauce over the filled shells, covering them completely.
  9. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the manicotti.
  10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  11. Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 450mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, ensure manicotti shells are not overcooked and allow to rest after baking for easier serving.

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