Beef and Cheese Manicotti
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool them slightly so they’re easier to handle.
- Prepare the filling:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Stuff the shells:
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Take care not to overfill or break the shells.
- Assemble the dish:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with 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:
- Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Conclusion
Beef and Cheese Manicotti is a true comfort food that brings everyone together over a delicious, hearty meal. The combination of cheesy filling, savory beef, and flavorful marinara sauce creates a dish that’s hard to resist. Serve it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired feast that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Enjoy!
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