Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce is more than just a hearty Italian-American dish; it is a celebration of warmth, flavor, and family tradition. Combining tender pasta tubes filled with creamy cheese, layered in rich meat sauce, and topped with melty mozzarella, this recipe transforms a simple meal into a heartwarming experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party, this dish never fails to satisfy.
In this comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about crafting the perfect stuffed manicotti—from choosing the right ingredients and mastering the filling to exploring flavorful variations, expert techniques, and tips to make it ahead. Let’s get into the world of manicotti magic.
What is Stuffed Manicotti?
Manicotti (pronounced “man-ee-COT-ee”) means “little sleeves” in Italian. These large pasta tubes are traditionally filled with ricotta cheese, then baked under a rich tomato or meat sauce and topped with bubbling cheese. This dish is a cousin to lasagna and cannelloni but has its own unique character due to the shape of the pasta and its delicate structure.
The version featured in this article includes a savory ground meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and a mozzarella topping that melts into gooey perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Satisfying: A true comfort food packed with layers of flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead of time or freezing.
- Versatile: Easily customized to suit different diets and flavor profiles.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for family or guests, it’s always a hit.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Ricotta Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 manicotti shells, cooked al dente
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (additional)
- 2 tbsp Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How to Make Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, breaking into small crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, 1 cup of mozzarella, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until creamy and fully combined.
Step 3: Cook and Fill the Pasta
- Cook manicotti shells in salted boiling water until just al dente.
- Rinse gently with cool water and set aside to handle.
- Fill each shell using a piping bag or a small spoon. Handle gently to prevent tearing.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange stuffed shells over the sauce.
- Cover with remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed manicotti is a rich, hearty dish that pairs well with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables (zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers)
- A glass of dry red wine
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Manicotti
- Undercook the Pasta: Slightly firm shells are easier to stuff and won’t fall apart.
- Use a Piping Bag: Cleaner, faster, and less messy.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Too much filling can cause shells to split.
- Sauce Generously: Prevents the pasta from drying out during baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Helps the layers set and enhances the flavor.
Variations You Can Try
Vegetarian:
- Skip the meat and use marinara sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ricotta filling.
Alfredo Style:
- Swap tomato-based sauce with creamy Alfredo for a decadent twist.
Spicy:
- Use spicy Italian sausage or add red chili flakes to the sauce.
Gluten-Free:
- Substitute with gluten-free pasta or use thin zucchini slices as shells.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- To Refrigerate: Assemble the dish and cover tightly. Store up to 24 hours in advance. Bake directly from fridge, adding 10 minutes to the baking time.
- To Freeze: Prepare fully but don’t bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, covered, for 45-50 minutes; uncover and bake 10-15 more minutes.
Leftover Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: In the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes. Or microwave individual portions.
Common Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use jumbo shells instead of manicotti?
Yes! Jumbo pasta shells are a great substitute and often easier to fill.
2. What cheese works best?
Ricotta is classic, but you can use cottage cheese or mascarpone for a twist.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from tearing?
Don’t overcook, and rinse with cool water after boiling.
4. Can I make it without meat?
Absolutely. Use marinara and extra veggies or plant-based crumbles.
5. Is it okay to add spinach to the filling?
Yes. Cook and chop spinach before adding it to the cheese mix.
6. Why is my filling watery?
Drain ricotta or use full-fat varieties. Avoid overmixing with wet veggies.
7. Can I prepare this for a crowd?
Yes! Double the recipe and use two large baking dishes.
8. Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely. Skip spicy sausage and use simple seasonings.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and tastes—creamy, saucy, cheesy, and savory. Whether you’re hosting a Sunday dinner, cooking for a loved one, or meal-prepping for a busy week, this dish fits every occasion. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize and elevate, making it your own signature meal.
Make it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a staple in so many homes. Your kitchen deserves this flavor journey—don’t wait to give it a try!
