Cheesy Manicotti: A Comforting Italian Classic

This Cheesy Manicotti is a crowd-pleasing dish filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection. With tender pasta tubes and a rich, cheesy filling, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Serve with tomato sauce for a classic touch or enjoy as is for pure cheesy goodness. Ready in about 45 minutes, this recipe is as delicious as it is easy!

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Ingredients

• 8–10 manicotti pasta tubes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups tomato sauce (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Manicotti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the manicotti pasta tubes according to package instructions until al dente (usually 6–8 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the Manicotti

1. Carefully spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each manicotti tube, filling them evenly. (A piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off works well for this.)

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using tomato sauce, spread a thin layer (about 1 cup) on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer in the baking dish.
4. Top with the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese. If using tomato sauce, drizzle another cup over the top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with extra tomato sauce on the side, if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Pair with a Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Sauce Variations: Try marinara, arrabbiata, or a creamy Alfredo sauce for different flavors.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or extra Parmesan for indulgence.

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Tips for Success

• Pasta Prep: Cook manicotti al dente to prevent tearing during stuffing.
• Filling Tip: Use a piping bag or a spoon to make filling the tubes easier and less messy.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the manicotti, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of sauce to keep it moist.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Manicotti is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy filling with tender pasta and a golden, bubbly top. It’s simple to prepare, customizable with your favorite sauce, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or just love cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy.

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Serves 4–5. Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 20–25 minutes. Total time: 40–45 minutes.