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Three-Cheese Manicotti

Three-Cheese Manicotti recipe image
These Three-Cheese Manicotti are a comforting Italian-American classic that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The filling combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sharp bite of Parmesan and the meltiness of mozzarella, creating a luxurious interior that pairs perfectly with a simple, simmered tomato sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, the pasta shells hold their shape while absorbing the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce. This dish is ideal for weeknight family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. It offers a hearty, satisfying experience that feels homemade without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 61.8
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
These Three-Cheese Manicotti are a comforting Italian-American classic that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The filling combines the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the sharp bite of Parmesan and the meltiness of mozzarella, creating a luxurious interior that pairs perfectly with a simple, simmered tomato sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, the pasta shells hold their shape while absorbing the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce. This dish is ideal for weeknight family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. It offers a hearty, satisfying experience that feels homemade without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 Envelope Spaghetti sauce
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
  2. 2
    Cook manicotti shells according to package directions until al dente; drain well.
  3. 3
    In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup cottage cheese, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. 4
    Add 2 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup snipped parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper to the cheese mixture; mix lightly until just combined.
  5. 5
    In a saucepan, blend 1 can tomato sauce, 1 envelope spaghetti sauce mix, and 1 1/2 cups water.
  6. 6
    Simmer the sauce mixture, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. 7
    Stuff each cooked manicotti shell with approximately 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture.
  8. 8
    Pour 1/2 cup of the prepared sauce into the bottom of a 12 x 7 1/2 x 2-inch baking dish.
  9. 9
    Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in the baking dish; pour the remaining sauce over the top.
  10. 10
    Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered manicotti.
  11. 11
    Bake uncovered at 350ðF (177ðC) for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 61.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.8g2%
Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 478.2mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 11.7g4%
Dietary Fiber 1.9g8%
Sugars 3.6g
Protein 2.5g5%

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

Note

Allow the manicotti to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help the filling set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

For a richer sauce, you can substitute the canned tomato sauce with fresh crushed tomatoes or a homemade marinara.

To make ahead: Assemble the manicotti, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or the cheese filling.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ðF until warmed through.

Keywords: manicotti, italian pasta, three cheese, stuffed pasta, mozzarella, parmesan, cottage cheese, tomato sauce, baked pasta, comfort food, family dinner, easy dinner, cheese filling, pasta shells, homemade sauce, meal prep, vegetarian, comforting, savory, classic recipe
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/three-cheese-manicotti-2/