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Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce

Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce Delight

Delight in this Cheesy Stuffed Manicotti with Flavorful Meat Sauce, a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 pieces Manicotti Shells Prepackaged shells save time and ensure even cooking.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can swap for lean turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Ground turkey sausage can be used for a leaner version.
  • 1 piece Onion Use shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Should be minced for the best taste.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Jarred or homemade varieties work well.
For the Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be a substitute.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Shredded for melting goodness.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can use Pecorino Romano for tanginess.
  • 1 piece Egg Aquafaba can replace it for vegan options.
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Fresh herbs elevate overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Fresh herbs elevate overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to personal preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to personal preference.

Equipment

  • baking dish
  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook manicotti shells for 6-7 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking up the meat for about 8 minutes.
  4. Stir in onions and garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish and fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture.
  7. Pour remaining meat sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For best results, drain ricotta well to avoid a watery filling. Taste the sauce before assembling to adjust seasonings.

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