There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of authentic Italian manicotti wafting through your kitchen, promising a feast fit for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Imagine sinking your fork into creamy ricotta nestled within tender pasta tubes, swimming in a luscious marinara sauce that dances on your taste buds. sweet dessert ideas perfect companion for manicotti The perfect combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable experience that can turn any ordinary day into a celebration.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of pasta is best for authentic Italian manicotti?
- Can I make manicotti ahead of time?
- What sauce pairs best with manicotti?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just about filling up; it’s about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company. I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were convinced I had secretly enrolled in culinary school! The laughter and compliments that followed made it clear: authentic Italian manicotti is not just food; it’s a delightful memory waiting to happen. Italian-inspired snacks.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This authentic Italian manicotti is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes
- Visually, the vibrant red sauce against the golden pasta makes an eye-catching presentation
- It’s versatile enough for various occasions, from casual family dinners to holiday feasts
Everyone raved about my manicotti when I served it at my last dinner party!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious garlic butter green beans recipe.
- Pasta Tubes: Look for large manicotti shells or cannelloni tubes that are sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta for a creamy texture; it really elevates the dish.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Use whole milk mozzarella for its meltiness and rich flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor—it’s worth it!
- Eggs: Large eggs help bind the filling together beautifully.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality jarred sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh Herbs (Basil & Parsley): Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor; don’t skip these!
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste; adjust according to preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Oven and Pasta Tubes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot with salt and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. delicious side options Drain and set aside.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, chopped basil, and parsley. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
Stuff the Pasta Tubes: Using a spoon or piping bag (for those who want to feel fancy), carefully fill each pasta tube with the cheesy mixture. Aim for generous portions but avoid overstuffing.
Add Marinara Sauce to Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. This step also adds flavor as it bakes.
Arrange Stuffed Manicotti in Baking Dish: Place each filled pasta tube upright in the baking dish. Once all are snugly fit together, pour remaining marinara sauce over them generously. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake and Enjoy!: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Allow cooling slightly before serving—it’ll be hard not to dive right in!
You Must Know
- Mastering authentic Italian manicotti not only impresses guests; it also brings nostalgia with each bite
- The rich flavors and creamy textures create a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve authentic Italian manicotti, cook the pasta al dente first, then prepare the filling while the sauce simmers. This keeps everything fresh, ensuring perfect textures when baked. For more inspiration, check out this irresistible orange custard squares recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before baking for a delightful aroma.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly stuffed manicotti, use a piping bag to fill each tube evenly
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be firm enough to hold its shape
- Saucing generously is key to avoiding dryness during baking
Cooking authentic Italian manicotti always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with laughter and aromas that made everyone feel at home.
FAQ
What type of pasta is best for authentic Italian manicotti?
Manicotti tubes are traditionally used, but you can substitute with cannelloni if needed.
Can I make manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and bake just before serving for best results.
What sauce pairs best with manicotti?
A classic marinara or béchamel sauce enhances the flavors of authentic Italian manicotti beautifully.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Authentic Italian Manicotti
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the warmth of home with this authentic Italian manicotti, a classic dish that combines tender pasta tubes filled with creamy ricotta and topped with rich marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe promises to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table. With its delightful flavors and textures, each bite feels like a warm hug from Italy.
Ingredients
- 12 large manicotti shells
- 15 oz fresh ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot; cook manicotti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Fill each manicotti shell generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place filled shells upright in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed manicotti (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
