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Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce

Heavenly Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce for Cozy Family Nights

Discover the joy of making Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce, a delightful comfort food perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti
  • 12 pieces Manicotti shells Choose quality pasta for best results.
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese if desired.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder for the filling.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground beef Opt for lean beef for a lighter option.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage Feel free to use turkey sausage for a healthier twist.
  • 1 medium Onion Sauté until caramelized for extra flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Always use fresh for best taste.
  • 24 oz Marinara sauce Select a high-quality jar for maximum flavor.
  • 1 tsp Basil Fresh herbs can brighten the dish.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Fresh herbs can brighten the dish.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to personal preference.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to personal preference.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese Mix fresh and shredded for varied texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese A sprinkle on top adds flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • colander

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook the manicotti shells in boiling water for 6-7 minutes until just al dente.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion for about 8 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in marinara sauce, let simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spread half of the meat sauce in a baking dish, fill manicotti shells with cheese mixture, place in dish seam-side down.
  7. Cover with remaining meat sauce and reserved mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Drain ricotta well to prevent sogginess and consider prepping the sauce a day ahead for better flavor development. Don’t overcook shells and always season the sauce to taste.

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