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Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti

Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti recipe image
These Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti are a comforting Italian-American classic that feels both elegant and homey. The filling is a luscious blend of creamy ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and salty prosciutto, seasoned with fresh parsley for a bright herbal note. Each large pasta tube is generously stuffed and baked until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden center. Served with a rich marinara sauce and a dusting of Parmesan, the dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Its an ideal choice for weekend family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. The combination of savory meat, tangy tomato, and rich dairy creates a deeply flavorful experience that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 747.9
Dietary: Gluten-free
Description
These Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti are a comforting Italian-American classic that feels both elegant and homey. The filling is a luscious blend of creamy ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and salty prosciutto, seasoned with fresh parsley for a bright herbal note. Each large pasta tube is generously stuffed and baked until the cheese melts into a gooey, golden center. Served with a rich marinara sauce and a dusting of Parmesan, the dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Its an ideal choice for weekend family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying meal. The combination of savory meat, tangy tomato, and rich dairy creates a deeply flavorful experience that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
Ingredients
  • 1/2 lbs Fresh mozzarella cheese, Salt and freshly ground
  • 1/2 -inch dice Black pepper
  • 2 lbs Ricotta cheese (or 2
  • 1/4 cups Minced fresh parsley
  • Ounce containers) 14 Manicotti shells
  • 1/4 lbs Prosciutto, 1/4-inch dice
  • 3 cups Tomato sauce (Meat or
  • 2 Eggs Marinara)
  • 1/2 cups Freshly graterd Parmesan
  • 1/2 cups Freshly grated Parmesan
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Lightly butter a 13x9-inch baking dish.
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, fresh mozzarella (torn or diced), diced prosciutto, minced parsley, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. 3
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook according to package directions until just tender but still firm (al dente), usually about 6-8 minutes. Do not overcook.
  4. 4
    Drain the shells and place them on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely. This prevents them from slipping and ensures the filling sticks.
  5. 5
    Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag for easier handling. Allow a bit of filling to peek out from the ends.
  6. 6
    Arrange the stuffed manicotti in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
  7. 7
    Pour half of the tomato sauce over the manicotti, ensuring they are lightly coated. Sprinkle with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. 8
    Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  9. 9
    Remove the foil, pour the remaining sauce over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
  10. 10
    Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
  11. 11
    Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 747.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 52.7g82%
Saturated Fat 33.5g168%
Cholesterol 211.1mg71%
Sodium 1470.2mg62%
Total Carbohydrate 10.2g4%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 7.7g
Protein 58.7g118%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: manicotti, pasta, italian, cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, stuffed, dinner, baked, marinara, prosciutto, comfort food, family meal, vegetarian-friendly, easy, homemade, pasta dish, dinner party, cheese filling, tomato sauce, parmesan
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/cheese-stuffed-manicotti/