Stuffed

Stuffed Manicotti

Name: Stuffed Manicotti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 manicotti tubes; 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil; 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated romano cheese; 1 tsp dried oregano

By Greta Yarrow · June 19, 2026 · Stuffed

Prep30 min

Cook40 min

Total70 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I helped my grandmother make Stuffed Manicotti. I was a little girl, and the way the pasta tubes filled with ricotta and parmesan cheese, then baked in a rich tomato sauce, fascinated me. Over the years, I've perfected her recipe, and now I'm excited to share it with you.

This dish is more than just a meal; it's a family tradition. Every time I make it, I'm reminded of my grandmother's love and the countless hours we spent together in the kitchen. If you're looking for a comforting, satisfying Italian-American recipe to share with your loved ones, you've found it.

Stuffed Manicotti is one of those dishes that's perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time, freeze it, or serve it straight from the oven. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making Stuffed Manicotti from scratch. From preparing the pasta and filling to baking it to perfection, I'll share my tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

So, let's get started on this culinary journey together! With a little practice, you'll be making Stuffed Manicotti like a pro, and your family will be begging for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is perfect for family dinners and can be made ahead of time.
Stuffed Manicotti is a crowd-pleasing recipe that's sure to become a staple in your household.
The recipe is budget-friendly and can be made with affordable ingredients.
The dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as garlic bread or a green salad.
The recipe is perfect for special occasions, such as holidays or birthdays.
The dish is comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Stuffed Manicotti is in the layers of flavor and texture. By using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh ricotta and parmesan cheese, and taking the time to cook the pasta al dente, you'll create a dish that's both satisfying and delicious.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the balance of flavors. The tomato sauce, made with canned tomatoes and a blend of herbs, provides a rich and tangy base for the dish. The ricotta and parmesan cheese add creaminess and a touch of saltiness, while the basil adds a bright, freshness.

Finally, the baking process is crucial. By covering the dish with foil and baking it at a moderate temperature, you'll create a tender, creamy filling and a golden-brown top. The result is a dish that's both comforting and elegant, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Stuffed Manicotti, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a few key ingredients, including fresh ricotta and parmesan cheese, canned tomatoes, and fresh basil. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, as they'll make a big difference in the final dish.

Here's a list of the ingredients you'll need to get started:

12 manicotti tubesLook for high-quality pasta tubes that are specifically labeled as 'manicotti.' You can find them in most Italian or specialty food stores.
2 cups fresh ricotta cheeseFresh ricotta is essential for this recipe. Look for it in the dairy or specialty cheese section of your grocery store.
1 cup grated parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. You can use either freshly grated or pre-grated parmesan.
1 egg, beatenThe egg helps to bind the filling together and adds moisture to the dish.
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. You can also use dried parsley if you prefer.
1/2 cup chopped fresh basilFresh basil is essential for this recipe. Look for it in the produce section of your grocery store.
2 cups canned crushed tomatoesCanned tomatoes are a convenient and affordable option for this recipe. Look for a high-quality brand that's low in sodium.
1/4 cup olive oilOlive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish. You can use either extra-virgin or regular olive oil.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeason the dish with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as dried oregano or thyme, if you prefer.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheeseMozzarella cheese adds a creamy, melty texture to the dish. You can use either fresh or low-moisture mozzarella.
1/4 cup grated romano cheeseRomano cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish. You can use either freshly grated or pre-grated romano.
1 tsp dried oreganoDried oregano adds a pungent, earthy flavor to the dish. You can use either dried or fresh oregano if you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panInstant-read thermometerLarge bowlMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or silicone spatula9x13-inch baking dish

How to Make Stuffed Manicotti

1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the manicotti tubes according to the package instructions until they're al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4
Add the dried oregano to the cheese mixture and stir to combine.
5
Stuff each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture, placing them in a single layer in the baking dish as you go.
6
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
7
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's thickened and reduced slightly.
8
Pour the tomato sauce over the stuffed manicotti tubes, making sure they're all coated.
9
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
10
Remove the foil and top the dish with the shredded mozzarella and grated romano cheese.
11
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
12
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
13
Serve the Stuffed Manicotti hot, garnished with additional parsley and basil if desired.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh ricotta and parmesan cheese, to ensure the best flavor.
Don't overcook the manicotti tubes, as they can become mushy and unappetizing.
Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld.
You can make the cheese mixture and tomato sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
To freeze the dish, assemble it without the cheese on top and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.
To reheat the dish, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
You can also add other ingredients to the cheese mixture, such as chopped ham or spinach, to give it extra flavor.
To make the dish more substantial, you can add some cooked ground beef or sausage to the tomato sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the manicotti tubes, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
Not letting the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, which can cause the cheese to be runny and the flavors to be unbalanced.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as canned cheese or low-grade tomatoes, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not covering the dish with foil during baking, which can cause the cheese to brown too quickly and the sauce to dry out.
Not stirring the tomato sauce occasionally during simmering, which can cause it to stick to the bottom of the pan and become too thick.
Not using enough cheese, which can make the dish dry and unappetizing.

Variations and Substitutions

Add some chopped ham or bacon to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, to give the dish a unique flavor.
Add some sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the tomato sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use gluten-free pasta tubes for a gluten-free version of the dish.
Add some dried or fresh herbs, such as oregano or basil, to the tomato sauce for extra flavor.
Use a combination of grated cheeses, such as parmesan and romano, for a richer flavor.
Add some chopped bell peppers or onions to the tomato sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

What to Serve With Stuffed Manicotti

Stuffed Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side of pasta or a green salad.

Some other ideas for serving Stuffed Manicotti include:

Garlic breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesPastaGrilled chicken or steak

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Stuffed Manicotti can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To freeze the dish, assemble it without the cheese on top and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.

To reheat the dish, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Here are some tips for storing and reheating Stuffed Manicotti:

Make sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the dish fresh.

When reheating the dish, make sure to cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly and the sauce from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of cheese to use for Stuffed Manicotti?

The best type of cheese to use for Stuffed Manicotti is a combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella. Ricotta provides a creamy texture, while parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. Mozzarella melts well and adds a smooth texture to the dish.

Can I use gluten-free pasta tubes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta tubes for this recipe. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I prevent the manicotti tubes from sticking together?

To prevent the manicotti tubes from sticking together, make sure to cook them until they're al dente and then rinse them with cold water. You can also add a little bit of oil to the cooking water to help prevent sticking.

Can I make the cheese mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it.

How do I reheat the dish without drying it out?

To reheat the dish without drying it out, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also add a little bit of water or tomato sauce to the dish to help keep it moist.

Can I freeze the dish for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the dish for later use. Assemble the dish without the cheese on top and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.

What is the best way to serve Stuffed Manicotti?

Stuffed Manicotti can be served with a variety of sides, such as garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side of pasta or a green salad.

Can I add other ingredients to the cheese mixture?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the cheese mixture, such as chopped ham or spinach, to give it extra flavor.

The Full Recipe

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