Golden Cheese Manicotti
Discover the perfect recipe for Baked Cheese Manicotti, ideal for holiday dinners with family and friends.
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 piping bag optional
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Cheese Filling
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 manicotti pasta tubes
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, basil, and oregano. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti tubes until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Use a piping bag to fill each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture, being careful not to overfill. Alternatively, use a small spoon to carefully fill each tube.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti, ensuring each tube is well covered. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve with your choice of side dishes.
Storage
- Store any leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh, high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and let the manicotti cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try adding spinach to the cheese filling for an extra boost of nutrients. Use different cheese blends for varied flavors.
How to Serve: Serve with a crisp salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the manicotti and store in the refrigerator overnight. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try adding spinach to the cheese filling for an extra boost of nutrients. Use different cheese blends for varied flavors.
How to Serve: Serve with a crisp salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the manicotti and store in the refrigerator overnight. Bake just before serving for the freshest taste.