Baked Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti

Baked cheese-stuffed manicotti is a comforting Italian classic featuring tender pasta tubes filled with a rich ricotta mixture, nestled in robust tomato sauce, and topped with bubbling, golden cheese. This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you crave a hearty, satisfying meal straight from the oven.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Italian comfort food
• Easy to prepare ahead of time
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Creamy, cheesy filling and savory tomato sauce
• Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Manicotti or cannelloni pasta tubes
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Marinara or tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (optional)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the pasta:
   Cook manicotti shells in salted boiling water until just under al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside on a towel to dry.
3. Prepare the filling:
   In a bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the pasta:
   Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture.
5. Assemble the dish:
   Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce. Top with more sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
7. Garnish and serve:
   Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Spinach ricotta filling: Add cooked, chopped spinach to the cheese mixture.
• Meat sauce: Use a ground beef or sausage tomato sauce instead of marinara.
• Vegan version: Substitute with dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells if available.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish without baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 60–70 minutes.

FAQs

What is the difference between manicotti and cannelloni?

Manicotti are ridged and usually larger; cannelloni are smooth. Both can be used interchangeably in this recipe.

Can I make manicotti ahead of time?

Yes, the entire dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and baked when ready.

Do I need to cook the pasta before stuffing?

Par-boiling the pasta helps with flexibility and ensures even baking. Some no-boil options exist but vary by brand.

Can I use store-bought ricotta?

Yes, but drain it first if it’s very watery for a creamier filling.

What cheese blend works best?

A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides creaminess, stretch, and sharpness.

How do I keep the pasta from tearing?

Undercook slightly and handle gently while filling. Use a piping bag for easier stuffing.

What sauce works best?

A basic marinara sauce or slow-simmered tomato sauce both pair well with this dish.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed and added.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, both baked and unbaked versions freeze well. Allow to cool fully before freezing if already baked.

Can I make this for a crowd?

Absolutely. Double the recipe and use two pans. It scales easily and serves well buffet-style.

Conclusion

Baked cheese-stuffed manicotti is a beloved dish that combines the warmth of homemade Italian cooking with the ease of a make-ahead casserole. Rich, creamy, and smothered in tomato sauce and cheese, it’s a meal that brings comfort to the table and joy to every bite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or special gathering, this recipe is a reliable favorite.

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