Looking for a delicious and satisfying Italian dish to warm you up on a cozy evening at home? Look no further than our flavorful Manicotti Pasta recipe! This classic dish combines tender pasta tubes filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, topped with a savory marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food to enjoy with family and friends. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this mouthwatering meal!
**Manicotti Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 box of manicotti pasta
– 2 cups of ricotta cheese
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups of marinara sauce
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the manicotti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
4. Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture. Place the filled pasta tubes in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed manicotti, making sure to cover each tube evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to lightly brown the cheese.
9. Once the manicotti pasta is cooked through and the cheese is golden, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
The aroma of the bubbling marinara sauce and cheesy filling will surely get your family eagerly gathered around the dinner table. This Manicotti Pasta recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to get a hearty dose of comfort in every bite. Feel free to customize the filling with spinach, ground meat, or additional herbs to suit your taste preferences. Serve with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this satisfying dish as you create lasting memories with your loved ones!
