Hearty Meat-Filled Manicotti (30 Minutes)

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Manicotti is a classic Italian pasta dish that’s loved for its indulgent and comforting qualities. The delicate pasta tubes are generously filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, cheese, and aromatic herbs, creating a combination that’s simply irresistible. Once baked with a tangy tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese on top, every bite becomes a delight for your taste buds. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 manicotti shells
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set them aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the flavors are well combined.
  3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat mixture cool slightly. Once cooled, spoon the meat filling into the cooked manicotti shells, filling each one generously.
  4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti in the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, covering them completely. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.

Notes

To save time, you can use pre-made marinara sauce, but feel free to use your favorite homemade sauce for an extra special touch. For a burst of flavor, consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture or sprinkling it on top before baking. Allow the manicotti to cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure easier handling. Serve with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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