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Manicotti with Meat Sauce

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Manicotti with Meat Sauce Delight

A comforting dish of Manicotti with Meat Sauce that's creamy and delicious, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti
  • 12 pieces Manicotti shells Essential structure for holding the cheesy filling.
  • 1 cup Ricotta cheese Provides creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese Adds that gooey stretch; using fresh will enhance flavor.
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese Imparts a salty, nutty richness.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground beef Primary protein in the sauce; opt for ground turkey for lighter version.
  • 2 cups Tomato sauce Forms the flavorful base; jarred options work well.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is best, but powder can work.
  • 1 medium Onion Contributes depth; swap for shallots if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Used for sautéing; extra virgin is superior.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasonings.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasonings.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Piping bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes. Stir in 2 cups of tomato sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer on low for 20 minutes.
  3. While the meat sauce simmers, prepare the cheese filling by combining 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of finely shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Stuff the manicotti shells with the cheese mixture using a piping bag or small spoon.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a baking dish, arrange the stuffed manicotti shells, then pour the remaining meat sauce on top and sprinkle extra mozzarella.
  6. Bake covered with foil for 40-45 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the cheese. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs while maintaining its delicious charm. Assemble ahead and let sit for better flavor.

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