This recipe creates a comforting and flavorful Cheesy Beef Manicotti, featuring pasta tubes filled with a savory beef and ricotta mixture, topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. It’s a satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (8 ounce) package manicotti shells (about 10-12 shells)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Cook the Manicotti Shells: Cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Manicotti: Fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta filling using a spoon or piping bag.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining meat sauce over the manicotti shells, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the manicotti is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Tips and Notes:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini to the sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the manicotti ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Freezing: Manicotti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Cheese Variations: You can use other cheeses such as provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of mozzarella.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.