Every family has a special recipe that makes any night feel like a celebration. For us, it’s this manicotti recipe with meat. It’s a dish that fills our hearts with warmth and our bellies with joy.
Growing up in an Italian-American home, I learned that food is more than just ingredients. It’s about love, tradition, and the stories we share. This manicotti recipe mixes ground beef and sausage with creamy ricotta. It’s both hearty and elegant.
This stuffed pasta tube is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a big gathering. The ricotta cheese filling, packed with ground beef or sausage, always impresses.
Key Takeaways
- Total cooking time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
- Serves 4 people comfortably
- Uses a perfect blend of ground beef and Italian sausage
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Freezer-friendly for up to 2 months
Introduction to Traditional Italian-American Manicotti
Manicotti is a tasty baked Italian casserole that connects Italy and America. It comes from the Campania region near Naples. Over time, it has changed through family recipes and immigrant stories.
The name “manicotti” means “little sleeves” in Italian. This fits the unique pasta tubes perfectly. These tubes make manicotti different from other stuffed pasta.
What Makes Manicotti Different from Cannelloni
- Manicotti tubes have exterior ridges
- Larger and slightly thicker pasta shells
- Cannelloni are smooth and smaller
- Distinct texture and sauce-holding capabilities
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
Our classic manicotti recipe is loved by many. It has hearty ingredients for a delicious meal. The dish has a rich meat stuffing, creamy ricotta, and a mozzarella cheese topping. Each bite is full of flavor, thanks to garlic and Italian seasoning.
Overview of Flavors and Textures
The perfect manicotti has a mix of tastes and textures:
- Al dente pasta shells
- Creamy ricotta filling
- Savory meat mixture
- Melted mozzarella cheese topping
- Aromatic Italian herbs
“Manicotti represents more than a meal—it’s a culinary journey through Italian-American heritage.”
Manicotti has its roots in late 19th-century Italian immigrants. It evolved from old recipes to become a beloved American comfort food. This dish combines old techniques with new ingredients, making it a classic that warms hearts and satisfies appetites.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Manicotti recipe with Meat
To make a great manicotti recipe with meat, you need the right ingredients. They should mix authentic flavors and textures well. Our guide will show you how to pick the best parts for a tasty stuffed manicotti dish. It will wow your family and guests.
Pasta Shell Selection Tips
Choosing the right pasta shells is key for a tasty beef manicotti. Look for large, tube-shaped shells that can hold a lot of filling. The best shells are:
- Slightly rigid but not too hard
- Free from cracks or breaks
- About 4 inches long
- Can hold about 1/4 cup of meat mixture
Meat and Cheese Components
The filling is the heart of a great baked manicotti. We suggest a mix of meat and cheese that’s rich and flavorful. Here’s what we recommend:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Primary protein source |
| Part-Skim Mozzarella | 1 cup | Creamy texture |
| Ricotta Cheese | 15 oz | Authentic Italian flavor |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup | Depth of flavor |
Sauce and Seasoning Requirements
The sauce and seasonings make your manicotti truly special. Use 3 cups of marinara sauce. Add fresh herbs like parsley and basil to boost the taste.
Pro tip: Fresh herbs can transform your manicotti from ordinary to restaurant-quality!
By choosing top-notch ingredients, you’ll make a manicotti recipe with meat that’s both tasty and memorable. The mix of tender pasta, rich meat filling, and flavorful cheeses makes for a satisfying meal. It’s sure to become a family favorite.
Preparing the Meat and Cheese Filling
Making the perfect filling is key for tasty ricotta manicotti. We’ll show you how to make a rich, flavorful mix. It will bring real Italian taste to your dinner.
For the best ground beef manicotti, choose top-notch ingredients. Our mix has different cheeses and seasoned meat for great taste.
Cheese Mixture Ingredients
- 1 pint whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Fresh basil leaves
- Italian seasoning
Meat Preparation Steps
- Brown ground beef with finely chopped onions
- Add minced garlic for deeper flavor
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
- Allow meat mixture to cool completely
Pro tip: Cooling the meat prevents the cheese from breaking down when mixed together.
“A great cheesy manicotti is all about balanced flavors and proper ingredient preparation.” – Culinary Expert
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound | Primary protein |
| Ricotta Cheese | 1 pint | Creamy base |
| Mozzarella | 8 ounces | Melting cheese |
| Parmesan | 1 cup | Sharp flavor |
When mixing the meat and cheese, fold gently. This keeps the filling light and full of flavor. Your italian manicotti will be tender and delicious.
Step-by-Step Manicotti Recipe with Meat
Making sausage manicotti is all about precision and passion. Our recipe turns your kitchen into a true Italian experience. You’ll create a delicious baked casserole that will wow your family.
Mastering the Shell Cooking Technique
Getting the manicotti shells just right is an art. Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add coarse sea salt for extra flavor. Then, cook the pasta tubes for exactly 6 minutes to get the perfect texture.
- Use heavily salted boiling water
- Cook pasta for precisely 6 minutes
- Drain immediately after cooking
- Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking
Crafting the Meat Filling
Our sausage manicotti filling is a mix of bold flavors and creamy textures. We suggest using Italian sausage and ground beef for the best taste.
- Brown Italian sausage and ground beef
- Finely mince 3-4 garlic cloves
- Mix part-skim mozzarella and cream cheese
- Combine meat and cheese mixtures thoroughly
Assembly and Baking Instructions
Turn your stuffed pasta into a tasty baked casserole with these steps:
- Spread 2 cups marinara sauce in 13×9-inch baking dish
- Fill each shell with about 1/4 cup meat mixture
- Use piping bag or spoon for even filling
- Arrange shells in prepared baking dish
- Cover with remaining sauce
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top
“The secret to perfect manicotti is in the details – from cooking the shells to filling them with love.”
Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes covered, then 5-10 minutes uncovered until golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly.
Expert Tips for Stuffing Manicotti Shells
Mastering stuffed manicotti is all about using the right techniques. These methods turn a simple pasta dish into a feast for the senses. Italian manicotti needs precision and preparation to fill each shell perfectly.
- Select the right filling tools
- Manage pasta texture carefully
- Control moisture during preparation
- Distribute filling evenly
“The secret to perfect manicotti is in the filling technique and texture control.” – Italian Culinary Institute
Using smart filling methods can greatly enhance your manicotti. A piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a corner cut off helps fill without mess. Fill the shells by starting on one side and finishing the other. This ensures the cheese is spread evenly.
| Technique | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Piping Bag Filling | Precise, Clean Distribution |
| Two-Sided Filling | Even Cheese Spread |
| Pasta Moisture Control | Prevent Soggy Texture |
Don’t overlook the importance of pasta shell preparation. Make sure the shells are tender yet firm to avoid water buildup. Also, drain meat fillings well to keep your manicotti’s texture just right.
Making the Perfect Marinara Sauce
Creating a delicious tomato sauce is key to making your manicotti amazing. Homemade marinara sauce adds depth and authentic Italian flavors. It’s better than store-bought options.
Homemade Marinara vs. Store-Bought Options
Making your own marinara sauce lets you control the flavors and ingredients. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing. Here’s why:
- Homemade sauce has better flavor
- Store-bought saves time
- You can add your own seasonings
Seasoning and Simmering Guidelines
The secret to a great tomato sauce is in its seasoning and cooking. Italian seasoning is key for rich, authentic flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Crushed Tomatoes | 3 cups | Base of the sauce |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves | Aromatic flavor enhancement |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 tablespoons | Authentic herb blend |
| Salt | To taste | Flavor balancing |
For the best flavor, simmer your marinara sauce for at least 30 minutes. This lets the garlic and herbs mix well with the tomatoes. It makes the sauce rich and full of flavor.
“A great marinara sauce is the heart of any memorable Italian dish.” – Culinary Tradition
Pro tip: Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tomato sauce’s acidity. It makes the flavor more rounded.
Baking Instructions and Temperature Guide
Making perfect baked manicotti needs careful attention to temperature and timing. The secret to a tasty, cheesy dish is knowing the best baking methods. These methods turn simple ingredients into a delicious meal.
Start by managing your oven well. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This creates the perfect setting for your manicotti to cook evenly and gain rich flavors.
Baking Steps for Perfect Manicotti
- Cover the assembled manicotti with aluminum foil
- Bake for 40 minutes to ensure thorough heating
- Remove foil and continue baking for 5-10 additional minutes
- Look for a bubbly, golden-brown top as your visual cue
Letting the dish rest is key. Wait 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This short wait helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
“The secret to great manicotti is patience in baking and serving” – Italian Cooking Wisdom
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a foil baking dish
- When reheating frozen manicotti, increase temperature to 375°F
- Frozen manicotti requires 45-60 minutes of cooking time
Pro tip: Mix part-skim mozzarella and cream cheese for a lighter, yet incredibly flavorful filling. This makes your baked manicotti taste like it’s from a restaurant.
Creative Variations and Add-ins
Take your manicotti recipe to the next level. Add creative twists to turn these classic pasta tubes into a dish that wows everyone.
Vegetable Enhancements
Make your ricotta cheese filling healthier and tastier with veggies. Try these great additions:
- Finely chopped spinach for a vibrant green twist
- Roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky undertone
- Sautéed zucchini for added texture
- Sun-dried tomatoes for intense flavor
Cheese Combinations
Play with different cheeses to enrich your manicotti filling:
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Pairing Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Fontina | Creamy and nutty | Pairs well with ground beef |
| Provolone | Sharp and tangy | Complements italian seasoning |
| Mascarpone | Ultra-smooth and mild | Adds luxurious texture |
Herb and Spice Exploration
Enhance your manicotti with herbs and spices for a deeper flavor:
- Fresh basil for a bright, aromatic touch
- Oregano to enhance the italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
- Fresh thyme for earthy undertones
“Cooking is an art, and manicotti is your canvas. Don’t be afraid to experiment!” – Chef Maria Romano
With these creative ideas, your stuffed pasta tubes will be a hit. They’ll show off both tradition and innovation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing a delicious manicotti recipe with meat doesn’t end with cooking. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this baked Italian casserole for days to come. Our expert tips will help you maximize the flavor and freshness of your dish.
Refrigerator Storage Guidelines
Your manicotti with meat can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. This makes it great for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.
Freezing Techniques
Freezing extends the life of your manicotti significantly. When properly stored in a foil baking dish, this hearty casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. It keeps its delicious taste and texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare manicotti up to the baking point
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours
- Let the dish come to room temperature for one hour before baking
| Storage Method | Duration | Recommended Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator Storage | Up to 4 days | Airtight container |
| Freezer Storage | Up to 2 months | Tightly covered foil baking dish |
“The secret to great manicotti is not just in the cooking, but in how you store and reheat it.” – Italian Cooking Maestro
Pro tip: When reheating your manicotti recipe with meat, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Warm at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Make your comfort food meal even better with the right side dishes and wines. These choices can turn your Italian manicotti into a full dining experience. It’s all about the journey, not just the main dish.
Complementary Side Dishes
Good side dishes can take your manicotti to the next level. We suggest vegetable sides that add freshness and balance. They help make your meal complete.
| Side Dish Category | Recommended Options | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Green Vegetables | Parmesan roasted broccoli | Crisp, nutty |
| Leafy Sides | Sautéed spinach | Light, earthy |
| Bread Options | Garlic bread | Warm, savory |
| Starter | Antipasto platter | Varied, appetizing |
With the right wines and side dishes, you’ll have a meal that honors the tradition of Italian manicotti. It’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest.
Conclusion
This manicotti recipe with meat is more than just a meal. It’s a journey through Italian-American tradition. Our stuffed pasta tubes offer a perfect mix of rich flavors and comforting textures. They turn a simple dinner into a memorable experience.
Each bite is a taste of authenticity, made right in your kitchen. It’s like having a restaurant-quality dish at home.
The beauty of this baked Italian casserole is its versatility and affordability. It costs about $2.75-$3 per serving, making it a great value. It’s packed with 16 grams of protein and cheeses like Galbani Mozzarella and Bel Gioioso Parmesan.
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a great choice for any meal.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event, this manicotti recipe will impress. It’s easy to make, taking just over an hour. It’s perfect for cooks of all levels.
By using traditional techniques and quality ingredients, you’ll create a meal that brings people together. It celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Italian-American cuisine.
We encourage you to explore, adapt, and enjoy this beloved recipe. Make it a special part of your family’s culinary tradition.
FAQ
What is the difference between manicotti and cannelloni?
Manicotti is a version of cannelloni found in Italian-American cuisine. Manicotti tubes have ridges and are bigger and thicker. Cannelloni tubes are smooth, smaller, and thinner.
How long can I store leftover manicotti?
Leftover manicotti can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to two months in a covered foil dish.
Can I prepare manicotti in advance?
Yes, you can make manicotti up to baking time. Just cover it and refrigerate for 24 hours. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for an hour.
What type of meat is best for manicotti filling?
Ground beef and Italian sausage are recommended for a flavorful filling. This mix adds richness and moisture to the dish.
How do I prevent the manicotti shells from becoming watery?
Cook the shells until they’re tender but firm. Drain the meat mixture well. Avoid overcooking the pasta. Cook the shells for about 6 minutes, then drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
What are some creative variations I can try with this manicotti recipe?
Add spinach or chopped broccoli to the filling for extra nutrition. Try different cheeses like fontina or provolone. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can add a unique twist.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is meat-based, but you can make it vegetarian. Replace the meat with spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Season the vegetable filling well to keep the flavors rich.
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