Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Easy Cheese Manicotti Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 50 reviews

This Easy Cheese Manicotti recipe features tender pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, cottage, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked in a homemade flavorful marinara sauce. Perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Marinara Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

For the Manicotti

  • 8 oz manicotti shells (about 12 shells)
  • 1 cup (8 oz) whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup low fat cottage cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Make the Homemade Marinara: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and not browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  2. Prepare the Manicotti Shells: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti shells according to package directions, removing them about 2 minutes early; shells should be pliable but firm. Drain carefully and lay shells in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, cottage cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
  4. Fill the Manicotti: Transfer the cheese filling to a piping bag or large zip-top bag with one corner snipped off. Pipe the cheese mixture into both ends of each manicotti shell, filling evenly.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or large cast iron skillet. Arrange filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon about 1 cup of remaining marinara sauce over and around the manicotti, leaving some pasta visible. Reserve any leftover sauce for serving.
  6. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the manicotti. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until sauce is bubbling and cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the manicotti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the manicotti shells; they should be pliable but not fully cooked to prevent breaking during filling and baking.
  • Using a piping bag makes filling the shells easier and less messy.
  • You can prepare the marinara sauce ahead of time to save on cooking time.
  • For a richer filling, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and flavors meld.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/easy-cheese-manicotti-recipe/