Best 3 Make Ahead Manicotti Recipes
Indulge in the culinary delight of manicotti, a classic Italian dish that combines the richness of pasta with a medley of delectable fillings. Originating from the vibrant region of Campania, manicotti refers to large pasta tubes, typically crafted from durum wheat semolina, that are carefully stuffed with an array of savory ingredients. These fillings can range from classic blends of ricotta, spinach, and Parmesan cheese to innovative combinations featuring mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or succulent seafood. Bathed in a luscious tomato sauce, manicotti is a symphony of flavors and textures, making it a centerpiece of many Italian feasts. In this comprehensive guide, we'll embark on a culinary journey, exploring various manicotti recipes that cater to diverse preferences and skill levels. From traditional renditions to creative twists, let's delve into the art of crafting this iconic Italian dish.
Let's cook with our recipes!
MAKE-AHEAD MANICOTTI
I have used this basic principle and adapted it to make stuffed shells and lasagna. If making lasagna, I buy a second, smaller jar of spaghetti sauce. I always feel like I need a bit more. Merry Manicotti!
Provided by Sandir
Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian
Time 1h30m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and eggs until blended. Stir in spinach, mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, sugar, salt and pepper. Stuff mixture into uncooked pasta shells.
- Spread 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a medium baking dish. Arrange stuffed pasta shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remainder of the sauce over the shells, cover dish, and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours, or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Bake covered for 40 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake for another 15 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 506.6 calories, Carbohydrate 55.8 g, Cholesterol 112.3 mg, Fat 19.1 g, Fiber 6.4 g, Protein 28.8 g, SaturatedFat 9.5 g, Sodium 1057.8 mg, Sugar 18.4 g
MAKE-AHEAD SPINACH MANICOTTI
When I invite people to dinner, many have started requesting this pasta bake ahead of time because it's that good. Plus, the manicotti is stuffed before it's cooked, making it even more convenient. -Christy Freeman, Central Point, Oregon
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 1h
Yield 7 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley and seasonings. In another large bowl, mix spaghetti sauce and water; spread 1 cup into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Fill uncooked manicotti shells with ricotta mixture; arrange over sauce. Pour remaining spaghetti sauce mixture over top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Refrigerate, covered, overnight., Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, uncovered, 40-50 minutes or until manicotti is tender. Freeze option: Cover and freeze unbaked casserole. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary to heat through and for a thermometer inserted in center to read 165°.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 363 calories, Fat 16g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 68mg cholesterol, Sodium 822mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (11g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 22g protein.
MAKE-AHEAD SPINACH MANICOTTI
This is so yummy! The addition of spinach makes it extra good!! Also, its a "make-ahead meal" and that is always handy!
Provided by Courtly
Categories Manicotti
Time 1h20m
Yield 6-8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, onion powder, pepper and garlic powder.
- Combine the spaghetti sauce and water; spread 1 cup sauce in an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish.
- Stuff uncooked manicotti with spinach mixture; arrange over sauce.
- Pour remaining sauce over manicotti.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozaarella and Parmesan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 40-50 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 435.7, Fat 21.2, SaturatedFat 12.5, Cholesterol 106, Sodium 478.9, Carbohydrate 34.2, Fiber 2.8, Sugar 1.8, Protein 27.3
Tips:
- Prep the Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all the ingredients are measured, chopped, and ready to go. This will save you time and ensure that you don't miss anything.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and oregano add a burst of flavor to the manicotti. If you can, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
- Don't Overcook the Manicotti Shells: Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions, but be careful not to overcook them. Overcooked shells will be mushy and difficult to fill.
- Stuff the Manicotti Shells Carefully: Use a teaspoon or a piping bag to stuff the manicotti shells. Be careful not to overstuff them, or they will burst during cooking.
- Bake the Manicotti Covered: Cover the manicotti with foil or a lid during baking. This will help to keep the manicotti moist and prevent them from drying out.
- Let the Manicotti Rest Before Serving: Once the manicotti is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the manicotti to firm up slightly.
Conclusion:
Make-ahead manicotti is a delicious and convenient meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, give make-ahead manicotti a try. You won't be disappointed!
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