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Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti

Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti That Will Steal Your Heart

This Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti features a flavorful meat sauce and creamy filling, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti and Sauce
  • 12 pieces Manicotti Shells Prepackaged shells
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with lean turkey or chicken
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Mild or spicy based on preference
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow onion preferred
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh bulbs preferred
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce Jarred or homemade
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Well-drained
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Fresh preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Fresh preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for about 6-7 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Sauté for about 8 minutes. Add diced onion, and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce with the meat mixture and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  6. Ladle half of the meat sauce into a prepared baking dish. Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture and place in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the shells.
  7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes.
  8. Let the manicotti rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure ricotta is well-drained for the best texture. Adjust seasoning of sauce before assembly for optimal flavor.

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