Can't go wrong with cheesy pasta. This three-cheese manicotti can be altered in all sorts of ways, including adding layers of mushrooms or Italian sausage. If you want to keep it nice and easy, though, it's pretty perfect the way it is.
12 manicotti pasta shells
4 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
1 package (8 ounce size) cream cheese with onions and chives, softened
3 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain the shells, rinse in cold water, and drain again very well.
Combine 3 cups of the Mozzarella cheese with the cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix until combined.
Stuff the cheese mixture into the manicotti shells, dividing the mixture evenly between the shells. Place the stuffed manicotti in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the manicotti. Sprinkle with the remaining Mozzarella cheese.
Place the manicotti in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes.
Sprinkle the Parmesan evenly over the top of the sauce and cheese and return the manicotti to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and starting to brown a bit.
Remove the manicotti from the oven and let rest for 7-10 minutes before serving.
For evenly cooked manicotti, make sure the sauce covers the pasta completely to prevent it from drying out during baking.
Add spices like grated nutmeg or freshly cracked black pepper to your cheese mixture for more flavor.
Lightly oiling the cooked pasta shells can help prevent them from sticking together if you're not ready to stuff them immediately.
If you're looking for a lighter version, try using low-fat versions of the cheeses and a lighter marinara sauce.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of the cream cheese with onions and chives?
Yes, you can use plain cream cheese and add your own mix of diced onions and fresh chives, or any herb of your choice, to replicate the flavor.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
You can stuff the manicotti shells, arrange them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to one day before baking. Just add a few minutes to the baking time since you'll be starting from a cold state.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken can be mixed into the cheese filling or layered along with the marinara sauce for a meatier dish.
How can I prevent the manicotti shells from tearing while stuffing?
Make sure the shells are fully cooled and handle them gently. Using a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off can make filling the shells easier and reduce the risk of tearing.
What if I don't have marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based pasta sauce as a substitute, or make a simple sauce by simmering canned tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and olive oil. You can also use an Alfredo or other white sauce, for a different flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish can be assembled and frozen before baking. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding a little extra time if necessary.
How do I serve the manicotti without them falling apart?
Allow the baked manicotti to rest for 7-10 minutes after removing from the oven. Use a spatula to gently lift and serve each manicotti, supporting it from both ends.
Can I make my own pasta shells for this recipe?
While homemade pasta shells can be used, it requires a bit more effort and skill. For this recipe, store-bought manicotti shells are recommended for convenience.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, look for gluten-free manicotti shells at specialty or health food stores to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I use a homemade cream cheese blend?
You can make your own flavored cream cheese by blending plain cream cheese with finely chopped onions, chives, garlic, or other herbs and seasonings.
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.
