Three Cheese Stuffed Baked Manicotti
A comforting and delicious pasta dish filled with three types of cheese, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 pieces manicotti shells Can substitute with jumbo shells.
For the Cheese Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded For a stretchy cheese topping.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Adds sharpness and a golden topping.
- 4 cloves garlic, roasted and minced Enhances the cheesy filling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds richness to the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings.
For Assembling
- 2 cups marinara sauce Heart of the dish.
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds color and fragrance.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes, until al dente.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, roasted garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
- Once the shells are cooked and cooled, fill each shell with the cheese mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place stuffed manicotti upright in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serving
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Consider mixing chopped spinach into the cheese filling for added flavor and nutrition. Use high-quality marinara sauce for best results.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
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