easy manicotti filling recipe

The Best easy manicotti filling recipe

I’ve been making manicotti for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. This easy manicotti filling recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Manicotti is an Italian dish that consists of large pasta tubes filled with a mixture of cheese, meat, and seasonings. The key to making great manicotti is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overfill the pasta tubes.

This recipe uses a combination of ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ground beef to create a rich and flavorful filling. I love serving manicotti at family gatherings and special occasions, as it’s easy to make in large quantities and can be served hot or cold.

Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids to eat more vegetables – I like to add finely chopped spinach or zucchini to the filling for added nutrition. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

Simply cook the pasta tubes according to the package instructions, fill them with the cheese mixture, and top with your favorite marinara sauce. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Easy Manicotti Filling

4.8 from 774 votes

A simple and creamy ricotta and spinach filling for manicotti shells. This no-fuss recipe uses common ingredients and comes together in minutes.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For Assembly

12 manicotti shells
3 cups marinara sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, squeezed spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5Fill each uncooked manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
6Use a small spoon or a piping bag to gently fill the shells, being careful not to tear them.
7Arrange the filled shells in a single layer over the sauce in the baking dish.
8Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they are fully covered.
9Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
10Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
11Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
12Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Spoon or piping bag
Fork
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. You can also add cooked ground meat or Italian sausage to the filling for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Easy Manicotti Filling Works

This easy manicotti filling recipe is a staple in our household because it’s so versatile – we can serve it hot or cold, and it’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make in large quantities.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it stores well – you can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Manicotti Filling

Q: What type of cheese should I use for the filling?

I like to use a combination of ricotta and Parmesan cheese for the filling. Ricotta has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that pairs well with the ground beef, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before using.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta tubes from breaking?

To prevent the pasta tubes from breaking, make sure they are cooked al dente and then let them cool slightly before filling them. You can also try using a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a corner cut off to fill the tubes.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or pork instead of beef. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the filling.

Q: How do I store leftover manicotti?

You can store leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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