Three Cheese Manicotti is a delightful Italian dish that combines the creaminess of three cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan—with tender manicotti pasta, all baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce. This classic comfort food is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The cheese-filled pasta shells absorb the flavors of the sauce as they bake, creating a satisfying, flavorful bite. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just love cheesy, baked dishes, this manicotti recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the manicotti: Carefully spoon the cheese mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the filling into each cooked manicotti shell, being gentle to avoid breaking them.
- Assemble the dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure they are fully covered.
- Bake the manicotti: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy this cheesy, comforting Three Cheese Manicotti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!
