Quick and Easy Manicotti

Discover the comforting flavors of Italy with this quick and easy manicotti recipe. Perfect for pasta lovers, this dish combines creamy ricotta, savory ground meat, and rich cheeses, all wrapped in tender manicotti shells and baked to perfection with a zesty marinara sauce. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a cozy night in, this manicotti recipe is sure to delight!

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Ingredients

🍝 10 manicotti pasta shells
🧀 1 cup ricotta cheese
🥚 1 egg
🥩 1 cup cooked ground meat
🧀 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
🧀 1 cup mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
🌶️ 1 teaspoon paprika
🌿 1 teaspoon oregano
🍅 2 cups marinara sauce (preferably Bertolli Organic Tomato & Basil)
🌿 Extra parsley for garnish

Instructions

1- Prepare the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add manicotti pasta shells and cook until al dente, usually about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.

2- Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, cooked ground meat, parmesan cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, paprika, and oregano.
Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

3- Stuff the Manicotti:

Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese and meat mixture using a spoon or a piping bag.

4- Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed manicotti over the sauce in a single layer.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti.

5- Bake the Manicotti:

Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

6- Serve:

Garnish with extra chopped parsley.
Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete Italian meal experience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 480 calories per serving
Proteins: 28g
Fats: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Equipment: Pot, baking dish, mixing bowl, spoon or piping bag