Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of simmering marinara sauce wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Italian eatery. This Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes is my take on a classic dish that combines nostalgic flavors with a delightful twist. Using crepes instead of the traditional pasta, it offers a tender, delicate wrap that perfectly envelops a creamy ricotta filling—truly a comfort food for the ages. Not only is this recipe great for impressing your guests during festive gatherings, but it also transforms an ordinary family dinner into a cozy culinary experience. Are you ready to create a masterpiece that brings the warmth of Italy into your home? Let’s dig into the details! Why is this manicotti special? Authentic Flavors: This recipe brings the taste of Italy into your kitchen, celebrating the beauty of traditional dishes. Simple Yet Elegant: Using crepes adds a unique twist that’s both easy to prepare and visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion. Creamy Filling: The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a rich, dreamy filling that will have everyone asking for seconds. Versatile: Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight or presented at a holiday feast, this dish fits every dining experience beautifully. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the crepes and filling in advance for a quick assembly and baking time later, making hosting stress-free. Elevate your meal by serving this manicotti with a vibrant salad or some delicious garlic bread, just like with Garlic Chicken Thighs or Italian Pasta Fagioli. Get ready to enjoy a delightful Italian experience! Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti Ingredients • Dive into this comforting recipe and discover the delightful ingredients that make your Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes sing! For the Crepes Whole Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess to the crepe batter; swap with low-fat milk for a lighter option. Large Eggs – Provides structure and binding in both the crepe and filling; choose organic for extra flavor. All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the base for the crepes, giving them structure; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free dish. Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor in both the crepe batter and filling; table salt is a good alternative if kosher isn’t available. Unsalted Butter – Greases the pan and adds richness to the crepes; non-stick spray works well as a substitute. For the Filling Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and serves as the main filling; straining it results in a thicker consistency. Shredded Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese – Offers a melty, gooey texture; opt for low-fat cheese for a lighter filling. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Contributes an umami flavor to the filling; you can switch it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. Chopped Fresh Parsley – Provides freshness and color; dried parsley can be used but will alter the flavor slightly. Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice to the filling; white pepper can be used if you prefer a milder taste. For the Sauce Marinara Sauce (or Old School Italian Gravy) – Acts as the base for cooking and adds flavor; homemade sauce enhances authenticity beautifully. Grated Pecorino Romano Cheese – Melts and browns slightly during baking, adding flavor and richness; more Parmesan can be used as a substitute if desired. With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart—your Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes is just a few steps away! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Step 1: Prepare Crepe Batter In a blender, combine 2 cups of whole milk, 4 large eggs, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Blend until smooth and homogenous. Once well mixed, let the batter chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flour to hydrate fully and the crepes to become light and delicate when cooked. Step 2: Make Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and creamy. Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the crepes, enhancing the flavors as it sits. Step 3: Cook Crepes Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with unsalted butter. Pour ¼ cup of the crepe batter into the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. Cook until the edges gently lift from the pan, about 30-60 seconds. Carefully flip the crepe using a spatula and cook for an additional 30 seconds until set. Transfer to a plate, and repeat until you have 6-8 crepes. Step 4: Assemble Manicotti Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take a crepe, fill it with ⅓ cup of the ricotta filling, and roll it up tightly. Place the filled crepe seam-side down in the baking dish. Continue this process until all crepes are assembled and arranged snugly in the dish. Top with the remaining marinara sauce. Step 5: Bake Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese over the top of the assembled manicotti. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The manicotti should be bubbly and the cheese lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving, enhancing the flavor and making it easier to slice. What to Serve with Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Transform your meal into a comforting Italian feast that delights every sense! Garlic Bread: Piping hot, buttery garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the creamy filling of the manicotti. It’s the ideal vehicle for sopping up delicious marinara sauce. Italian Salad: A mixed greens salad with tangy vinaigrette brightens the palate between bites. The crispness of fresh vegetables offers a refreshing balance to the hearty dish. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. They enrich the meal without overwhelming the decadent flavors. Herbed Risotto: A creamy, parmesan-infused risotto gently enveloping herbs creates a luxurious side that echoes the warmth of the manicotti. This dish enhances the culinary experience with its rich and velvety texture. Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Chianti to complement the rich flavors of the dish. The wine’s acidity beautifully balances the creaminess, enhancing your dining experience. Tiramisu: Finish off this sumptuous meal with a luscious tiramisu. Its coffee-infused layers of mascarpone and cocoa create the perfect sweet ending, leaving everyone craving more. These pairings not only elevate the meal but also create a joyful dining experience reminiscent of Italy’s warm hospitality! Make Ahead Options These Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crepe batter and filling up to 24 hours in advance; just cover and refrigerate them separately to keep everything fresh. If you want to assemble the entire manicotti before baking, store the filled crepes in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply top with marinara sauce and bake directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through. This way, you save time on busy weeknights while enjoying a dish that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Variations Feel free to explore these exciting variations and substitutions to make this comforting dish even more special! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the crepe batter for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy. Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta and mozzarella with cashew cheese or almond-based alternatives, making it a hit for dairy-free diets. Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or roasted peppers to the filling for added nutrition and a pop of color. Hearty Twist: Mix cooked Italian sausage or ground beef into the filling for a bolder flavor that meat lovers will adore. Sauce Swap: Exchange marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a new, indulgent taste experience that is equally luscious. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano into the ricotta mixture, adding a fragrant touch that sings of Italy. Extra Zing: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or fresh chili into the sauce for a delightful kick that brings warmth to each bite. Cheesy Delight: Use a blend of cheeses like provolone or fontina in the filling for a unique twist on the classic gooey texture. No matter how you choose to enhance your Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes, it all leads to a more personalized and flavorful dish! For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a vibrant salad or some cheesy garlic bread, similar to what you’d find with Garlic Chicken Thighs or Italian Pasta Fagioli. Expert Tips for Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti Crepe Thickness Matters: Ensure your crepes are thin and uniform; thick crepes can overpower the delicate filling and disrupt the perfect texture of your Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes. Chill the Batter: Letting the crepe batter chill for at least 30 minutes helps create light, airy crepes, which adds to the overall quality of your dish. Strain Ricotta: Always strain the ricotta cheese before using it to create a thicker filling that won’t be too watery, ensuring a rich and creamy texture. Perfect Assembly: Roll the crepes tightly but gently to prevent tearing; this keeps the filling intact and enhances the presentation in your manicotti. Rest Before Serving: Allow the manicotti to sit for a few minutes after baking; this makes slicing and serving easier while letting flavors develop even further. Storage Tips for Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Fridge: Store leftover manicotti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to maintain moisture. Freezer: Wrap assembled manicotti tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for the best results. Crepe Batter: The crepe batter can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just give it a quick stir before cooking the crepes. Filling Storage: Store the ricotta filling in an airtight container for up to 2 days to preserve its freshness. Mix well before using. Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Recipe FAQs How do I select the right ripeness for my ingredients? Absolutely! When choosing your whole milk ricotta, look for a brand that is creamy and smooth without any excessive liquid in the container. If you prefer your cheeses fresher, aim for ricotta that’s made within a week of your purchase. For herbs like parsley, vibrant green leaves with no wilting indicate freshness—this enhances the final flavor of your Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes. How should I store leftover manicotti, and how long does it last? You can store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to keep it moist. If you want to store it longer, assemble it in advance, wrap the dish tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking! What is the best method for freezing the manicotti? For freezing, I recommend wrapping the assembled manicotti tightly in foil or using a freezer-safe container. Be sure to label it with the date. They can go into the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed for a comforting meal that feels freshly made. What are some common troubleshooting tips when making the crepes? If your crepes are tearing, it might be due to uneven cooking or the batter being too thick. Be sure to let the batter rest and to use a non-stick skillet with adequate greasing. If your crepes are slightly greasy after cooking, they may be too thick or fried for too long. Adjust the heat and check for a thin, light color; they should not be shiny when you flip them. Experimenting with these variables can really enhance the texture of your manicotti! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, you can create a lactose-free version by using dairy-free cheese alternatives. For gluten-sensitive folks, gluten-free all-purpose flour works as a substitute for the crepes. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet the dietary needs of your guests and loved ones! Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes Just Like Nonna This Authentic Homemade Italian Manicotti with Crepes combines traditional flavors with a unique twist, featuring tender crepes filled with creamy ricotta. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 piecesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crepes2 cups Whole Milk Swap with low-fat milk for a lighter option.4 large Eggs Choose organic for extra flavor.1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free dish.0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt Table salt is a good alternative if kosher isn’t available.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Non-stick spray works well as a substitute.For the Filling15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Straining it results in a thicker consistency.1 cup Shredded Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese Opt for low-fat cheese for a lighter filling.0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese You can switch it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.0.25 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can be used but will alter the flavor slightly.1 pinch Black Pepper White pepper can be used if you prefer a milder taste.For the Sauce2 cups Marinara Sauce (or Old School Italian Gravy) Homemade sauce enhances authenticity beautifully.0.5 cup Grated Pecorino Romano Cheese More Parmesan can be used as a substitute if desired. Equipment Blendernon-stick skilletbaking dish Method Crepe PreparationIn a blender, combine 2 cups of whole milk, 4 large eggs, 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Blend until smooth and homogenous. Let batter chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.Filling PreparationIn a large mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until creamy and cover. Chill in the refrigerator.Crepe CookingHeat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with unsalted butter. Pour ¼ cup of the crepe batter into the skillet and cook until edges lift, about 30-60 seconds.Carefully flip the crepe using a spatula and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate. Repeat until you have 6-8 crepes.Manicotti AssemblyPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Fill each crepe with ⅓ cup of ricotta filling, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish. Top with remaining marinara sauce.BakingSprinkle ½ cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesChilling the crepe batter for at least 30 minutes helps create light, airy crepes. Straining the ricotta cheese ensures a thicker filling. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
