There’s something truly magical about a warm plate of Three Cheese Manicotti. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was a rainy Sunday, and I wanted to create a comforting meal that would bring everyone together. As the aroma filled the kitchen, my kids wandered in, drawn by the scent, their eyes lighting up with anticipation. This dish has since become a staple at our family gatherings, a symbol of love and togetherness. Each bite is a delightful blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, making it a cheesy delight that never fails to impress. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, Three Cheese Manicotti is always a hit, reminding us of the joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones.
Ingredients List
To create the perfect Three Cheese Manicotti, gather the following ingredients:
4 to 5 ounces manicotti pasta: Uncooked, these shells will hold all the cheesy goodness.
3 cups spaghetti sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade for a personal touch.
2 large eggs: These will help bind the cheese filling together.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
½ tablespoon dried parsley: For a hint of herbal freshness.
¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese: A must for that rich, nutty flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This will melt beautifully, creating a gooey texture.
2 cups ricotta cheese: The star of the filling, creamy and delicious.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: For a savory depth.
1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: A fresh touch to finish off the dish.
How to Prepare Three Cheese Manicotti
Preparing Three Cheese Manicotti is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these steps to create this cheesy masterpiece.
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly across the bottom. This will create a flavorful base for your manicotti.
Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 2 large eggs, ½ cup of shredded Parmesan, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, and ½ tablespoon of dried parsley. Mix everything until it’s well combined. The filling should be creamy and smooth, ready to bring joy to your manicotti shells.
Stuff the Manicotti Shells
Now comes the fun part! Transfer the cheese mixture into a piping bag or a resealable storage bag with the tip cut off. Carefully pipe the filling into each manicotti shell, ensuring they are fully stuffed. Don’t be shy; fill them generously! Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, making sure they sit snugly together.
Bake the Manicotti
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed manicotti, covering them completely. Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the manicotti shells are soft and the sauce is bubbling. Once baked, remove the foil and sprinkle fresh chopped basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
When indulging in Three Cheese Manicotti, it’s good to know what you’re savoring. Each serving offers an estimated:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Sugar: 6g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this cheesy delight while being mindful of your dietary needs!
Tips for Success
To make your Three Cheese Manicotti truly shine, here are some pro tips:
Season to taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. A pinch more can elevate the flavors.
Spice it up: For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the cheese filling. It adds a delightful heat that balances the creaminess.
Fresh herbs: Use fresh basil instead of dried for a burst of flavor. It makes a noticeable difference!
Let it rest: After baking, let the manicotti sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
With these tips, your dish will be a cheesy masterpiece that everyone will love!
Variations of Three Cheese Manicotti
While the classic Three Cheese Manicotti is a hit, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
Veggie Delight: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the cheese filling for a nutritious boost.
Meat Lover’s: Mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a heartier version.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the filling for an aromatic touch.
These variations can elevate your dish and keep your family excited for more!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Three Cheese Manicotti experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a colorful touch and a healthy crunch. And don’t forget a glass of red wine! A nice Chianti or Merlot can enhance the flavors, making your dinner feel extra special. Enjoy your meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Three Cheese Manicotti is easy! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Enjoy your cheesy delight!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions about making Three Cheese Manicotti:
Can I use different types of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses like goat cheese or provolone for a unique flavor. Just keep the ratios similar to maintain the creamy texture.
How do I prevent the manicotti from breaking? To avoid breakage, handle the uncooked shells gently. Cook them just until al dente, as they will soften further while baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the manicotti and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil.
What can I serve with Three Cheese Manicotti? A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish. Roasted vegetables also make a great side!
Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes! You can freeze the assembled manicotti for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Three Cheese Manicotti is a creamy, cheesy delight for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
4 to 5 ounces manicotti pasta, uncooked
3 cups spaghetti sauce
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
½ tablespoon dried parsley
¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, ½ cup of shredded Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Mix until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a resealable storage bag with the tip cut off.
Pipe the cheese mixture into each manicotti shell until they are fully stuffed. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the manicotti shells are softened.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped basil and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the filling.
