Ingredients:
For the Manicotti:
- 8 to 10 manicotti pasta tubes (you might want extra in case some break)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Precook Manicotti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the manicotti pasta tubes according to the package instructions until they are slightly undercooked (usually about 2 minutes less than recommended).
- Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. This will make them easier to handle.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Mix until well combined.
Fill the Manicotti:
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each precooked manicotti tube with the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the pasta.
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, combine the marinara sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Layer the Baking Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the filled manicotti tubes in a single layer in the dish.
Cover with Sauce:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the manicotti, ensuring they are well-covered.
Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
Add Cheese Topping:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake Until Golden:
- Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve your delicious homemade manicotti hot and enjoy!
This dish is a wonderful combination of creamy, cheesy filling and tangy marinara sauce, all wrapped in tender pasta. It's perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasions.