Pork Manicotti

Pork Manicotti

Get ready to add a scrumptious twist to your pasta night with this delightful recipe for Pork Manicotti! Stuffed with a savory mixture of ground pork, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Not to mention, it’s a perfect option for entertaining guests or simply indulging in a cozy night in. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:
– 8-10 manicotti pasta shells
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Season the pork mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the pork mixture cool slightly.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
7. Add the cooled pork mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is evenly distributed.
8. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
9. Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the pork and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place the filled shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
10. Once all the manicotti shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, covering them completely.
11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Pork Manicotti hot out of the oven, paired with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with a homemade Italian feast. Bon appétit!