Classic Meat Filled Manicotti

Name: Classic Meat Filled Manicotti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 500 g ground beef (lean); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg (beaten); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp dried oregano; 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 12 manicotti shells (uncooked); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

85 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in this rich and hearty meat filled manicotti, a comforting classic Italian dish perfect for family dinners.

Prep

30 min

Cook

45 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Meat filled manicotti is a beloved classic Italian dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. This version combines a savoury meat filling with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. What sets this recipe apart is its balance of flavours and textures. The tender pasta shells are generously stuffed with a blend of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta, making each bite a delight. Topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this meat filled manicotti recipe is straightforward and rewarding. With a few tips and tricks, you'll create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cook the beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and let cool slightly.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks for even browning.

Mix the filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and oregano. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: Ensure the beef is not too hot to prevent cooking the egg.

Fill the shells

Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the beef mixture using a piping bag or spoon.

Pro tip: A piping bag makes filling the shells easier and less messy.

Assemble the dish

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Arrange the filled shells on top and cover with remaining sauce.

Add the cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the manicotti.

Pro tip: Cover with foil to avoid over-browning.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Pro tip: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to set.

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Tips & Tricks

For best results, use a piping bag to fill the manicotti shells.
Ensure the meat mixture cools slightly before filling the pasta.
Cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is meat filled manicotti?

Meat filled manicotti is an Italian dish consisting of pasta tubes filled with a seasoned meat and cheese mixture, covered in sauce, and baked.

How do you fill manicotti shells?

Use a piping bag or a small spoon to carefully fill the uncooked manicotti shells with the meat mixture.

How many calories are in meat filled manicotti?

One serving of this meat filled manicotti contains approximately 550 calories.

Can I make manicotti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the manicotti up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What should I serve with meat filled manicotti?

Serve it with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

How long does it take to bake manicotti?

Bake manicotti for 45 minutes at 180°C (350°F), covering for the first 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this meat filled manicotti hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of colour. It's a complete meal on its own, but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread. Make-ahead friendly, the manicotti can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to a day before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven before serving.

Nutrition per serving

550

Calories

32g

Protein

28g

Fat

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