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Easy Manicotti

Imagine carving into a tender, stuffed pasta shell with a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, gooey cheese, and savory marinara in every bite.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 manicotti shells
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Saucepan for marinara
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Cook the manicotti shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, one egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
  5. Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  6. Arrange the stuffed shells side by side in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, cover with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese.