Imagine a plate of authentic Italian manicotti, where tender pasta shells cradle a creamy ricotta filling, smothered in rich marinara sauce. The aroma wafts through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation. savor these garlic butter beef bites Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, combining the savory notes of herbs with the comforting warmth of cheese. indulge in savory tartlets perfect with a comforting potato soup. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family—it was a chilly Sunday evening, and the laughter echoed around the dinner table as we dug into this heavenly creation. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, authentic Italian manicotti brings people together over shared deliciousness. For more inspiration, check out this orange custard squares recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines ease of preparation with an incredible flavor profile that will leave you craving more
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests
- Versatile enough to customize with various fillings or sauces to suit any taste preference
I’ll never forget how my uncle declared it “life-changing” after just one forkful.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta Shells: Choose large manicotti shells that hold plenty of cheesy goodness; fresh or dried both work well.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta is essential for that classic filling; look for whole milk varieties for richness.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use good-quality mozzarella for melting bliss; it adds gooey texture and flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade or store-bought, opt for a sauce that’s rich in herbs and tomatoes for best results.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan to sprinkle on top; it adds a delightful salty finish.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil brightens up the dish with its aromatic flair.
- Eggs: One egg helps bind the ricotta mixture together while adding richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepping the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously to flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add your manicotti shells and cook until al dente—about 7-8 minutes is perfect.
Mixing the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one beaten egg, half of your mozzarella, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Stir until everything harmonizes into a creamy dream.
Filling the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (because who doesn’t love feeling like a pro?), fill each manicotti shell with that luscious mixture until they’re stuffed full but not bursting at the seams. try these festive stuffed trees.
Preparing to Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of your marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Lay those filled shells on top like little soldiers ready for battle.
Cover and Top It Off: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells ensuring every nook is coated in tomato goodness. Sprinkle with leftover mozzarella and perhaps more parmesan—because why not?
Baking Bliss: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—this is when you start drooling uncontrollably.
Now you’re ready to serve! Let those cheesey delights rest for five minutes before cutting into them. Top with extra basil if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy your authentic Italian manicotti like it’s an Italian family reunion—loudly and joyfully!
You Must Know
- Authentic Italian manicotti is a delightful dish that combines creamy ricotta, savory sauce, and tender pasta
- Mastering this recipe guarantees family gatherings full of laughter and satisfied taste buds
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will transport you straight to an Italian trattoria
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the filling while water boils for the manicotti shells. Cook the pasta al dente, then stuff and bake them all in one go for delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with fillings like spinach or mushrooms, or swap marinara for pesto sauce. Customize it further with herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make stuffing easier, use a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off for precise filling
- Always taste your filling before stuffing; adjustments can enhance flavor significantly
- Allow the baked manicotti to rest before serving; this helps set it beautifully for presentation
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of hosting my first dinner party, where friends devoured every last bite, asking for seconds and thirds!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought manicotti shells?
Absolutely! Store-bought shells save time without sacrificing flavor in authentic Italian manicotti.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works as a great substitute and offers a similar texture for stuffing.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to enjoy this dish safely.
Irresistible Authentic Italian Manicotti
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of authentic Italian manicotti. Tender pasta shells envelop a rich, creamy ricotta filling and are generously topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, combining ease of preparation with exquisite taste. With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of savory herbs and warm cheese that brings everyone together. Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious classic!
Ingredients
- 12 large manicotti shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook manicotti shells until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, one beaten egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped basil until smooth.
- Fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread half the marinara sauce in a baking dish; place filled shells on top.
- Pour the remaining marinara over the shells and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffed manicotti (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - Customize fillings: Consider spinach or mushrooms for added flavor. - For gluten-free options: Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F.
