Cheesy, savory, and comforting manicotti.

Italian Manicotti is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta shells filled with a rich ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese mixture, enhanced by aromatic garlic and herbs. The marinara sauce adds a tangy, savory depth, while the melted mozzarella on top provides a gooey finish. The harmonious blend of cheeses and herbs creates a satisfying and delicious meal. Serve this classic dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete and delightful Italian dining experience.

Ingredients

• For the Manicotti
  • 1 box manicotti pasta
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Cook the manicotti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let cool.
3. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff Pasta: Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. You can use a piping bag or a small spoon for this step.
5. Prepare Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
6. Assemble Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed manicotti shells on top of the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil if desired.