Stuffed Manicotti
Cozy Family Memories with Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce
I still remember the first time I tasted stuffed manicotti. It was at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of simmering sauce filled the air and brought everyone together in the warmth of her cozy kitchen. She would put love into every layer of pasta, meat, and cheese, and we would gather around the table with eager hearts and rumbling stomachs. This recipe for Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce is a cherished family favorite, passed down through generations, and holds a special place in our hearts. The way the flavors meld together evokes memories of laughter and shared stories, making each bite feel like a hug from my grandmother.
What makes this dish so special to me is its ability to bring family together. Stuffed manicotti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that sparks joy and nostalgia, leaving everyone satisfied and happy around the dinner table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This stuffed manicotti recipe is the perfect balance of comfort food and home-cooked goodness. It’s not only packed with flavor, but it also brings everyone to the table, encouraging conversation and connection. The richness of the meat sauce combined with the creamy filling makes every bite a delightful treat. Plus, it’s a meal that can easily be made ahead of time and reheats wonderfully, ensuring that even the busiest of families can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal. With its impressive presentation and satisfying taste, it’s sure to become a reader favorite in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for added flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned for convenience)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Filling:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
For Assembly:
- 12 manicotti shells (uncooked)
- Extra mozzarella cheese for topping (1 cup)
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, and feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready while you prepare the meal.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 4: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend nicely.
Step 5: While the sauce is simmering, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 6: Once the sauce is ready, spread about a cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 7: Stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Be generous! Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish side by side.
Step 8: Pour the remaining meat sauce over the stuffed manicotti, ensuring all shells are generously covered. Sprinkle the additional mozzarella on top.
Step 9: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 10: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Ensure the manicotti shells are not overcooked as they may break apart during stuffing.
- If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with spinach or mushrooms.
- This dish freezes well! Simply cover with foil and freeze before baking; when ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven for the best texture. You can also use a microwave if you’re short on time.
How to Enjoy This Dish
To serve this delicious stuffed manicotti, consider a light side salad dressed with vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the dish. Garlic bread makes for a wonderful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Pair it with a glass of red wine for the adults or sparkling grape juice for the kids to enhance the cozy family dining experience.
For presentation, serve it hot from the oven, garnished with freshly chopped herbs and perhaps a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Each serving can be around 500 calories, making it a hearty yet satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this meal after baking. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. You can also use shredded vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Make sure to drain canned tomatoes well and avoid overcooking the sauce to concentrate the flavors.
Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use dairy-free cheese products to fit dietary needs.
Conclusion
Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce is more than just a dinner recipe; it’s a tradition that creates warm memories and nourishes the spirit. I hope you gather around your table soon, making your own memories with this warm, comforting dish. I encourage you to try this recipe, share your results, and feel the joy it brings to your family. Every bite invites connection, laughter, and love, reminding us all that the best meals are those enjoyed together.
“This stuffed manicotti recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are fantastic, and it’s become a staple in our home. My kids devour it every time!” – Happy Home Cook.
Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- While the sauce is simmering, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread about a cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish side by side.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce over the stuffed manicotti and sprinkle the additional mozzarella on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
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