Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package (8 oz) manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Spoon cheese mixture into a plastic bag and cut off one corner to create a makeshift piping bag.
5. Fill each manicotti shell with cheese mixture using the piping bag.
6. Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Place filled manicotti shells in the baking dish.
8. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top of the manicotti shells.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 430
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 1,150mg
Sugar: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture for a meaty version.
- Use spinach instead of parsley for a spinach and cheese manicotti.
- Top with additional shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy crust.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a piping bag or plastic bag with a corner cut off to easily fill the manicotti shells.
- Rinse the cooked manicotti shells with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
- Let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent the cheese from spilling out.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve on a platter with additional marinara sauce and grated parmesan cheese on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Pairings:
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the manicotti shells are too difficult to fill, try using a small spoon instead of a piping bag.
- If the cheese mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the manicotti shells until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft and falling apart.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Manicotti is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the Campania region of Italy. It is typically served during special occasions and holidays.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and fresh out of the oven with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad.
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Region: Italian