Classic Italian Style Manicotti Recipe
Here's a classic Italian-style manicotti recipe that features pasta tubes filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Manicotti Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Manicotti:
- 1 box (8 ounces) manicotti pasta shells
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to reduce acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional Ingredients:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Manicotti Pasta:
- Cook manicotti pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, thawed and drained spinach, chopped fresh parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Fill the Manicotti:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cooked manicotti pasta shell with the ricotta cheese and spinach mixture. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Manicotti:
- Spoon the remaining sauce over the manicotti, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve:
- Let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful manicotti dish with a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, topped with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It's perfect for a special dinner or family gathering!
