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Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce

Savory Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce for Cozy Nights

Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce is a comforting Italian dish combining seasoned meat, cheeses, and rich marinara sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti
  • 12 pieces manicotti pasta shells Ensure shells are cooked al dente to prevent cracking.
For the Meat Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef Provides flavor and protein.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Adds richness.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Enhances overall taste.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds a Mediterranean essence.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil Complements the oregano.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Key for enhancing flavors.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth.
For the Cheesy Filling
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Acts as a creamy filling base.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Choose low-moisture mozzarella.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances flavor.
  • 1 piece egg Acts as a binder.
For the Sauce and Garnish
  • 3 cups marinara sauce Vital for moisture and flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and color.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spatula
  • Piping bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, and add the manicotti shells. Cook until just al dente, about 7-9 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up until browned.
  4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet with the browned meat, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  5. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Mix until creamy, then fold in the meat mixture.
  7. Fill each manicotti shell with the meat and cheese mixture and place them upright in the greased baking dish.
  8. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed manicotti, ensuring each shell is coated.
  9. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  11. Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Handle the manicotti shells with care while filling to prevent cracking. Consider using a piping bag for easier filling.

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