Manicotti Recipe

Manicotti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish made with large pasta tubes filled with a rich ricotta cheese mixture, covered in marinara sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection with a golden, cheesy top. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or make-ahead meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy filling that’s always a crowd-pleaser
• Perfect for feeding a family or a dinner party
• Can be made ahead and baked later
• Customizable with meat, spinach, or different cheeses
• Classic comfort food with minimal prep
• Freezes well for future meals
• Simple ingredients with rich, satisfying results
• Makes a beautiful presentation on the table

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Manicotti pasta shells
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
• Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil (optional, for coating baking dish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook manicotti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the cheese filling into a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped.
5. Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
6. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
7. Arrange filled manicotti over the sauce in a single layer.
8. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese filling for a heartier version.
• Mix chopped spinach or kale into the ricotta mixture for added nutrition.
• Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a flavor twist.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Try using no-boil manicotti shells and adjust baking time accordingly.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Freeze unbaked manicotti in a foil-covered dish for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best way to fill manicotti shells?

Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off for easy, mess-free filling.

Can I use jarred sauce?

Absolutely. Use your favorite high-quality marinara sauce or make your own.

Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

Yes, you can use cottage cheese or a mixture of cottage and cream cheese.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms work well.

How do I prevent the pasta from tearing?

Cook until just al dente and handle gently when filling.

Can I use oven-ready manicotti shells?

Yes, just make sure the filling is moist and use extra sauce to help soften the pasta during baking.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free manicotti shells or substitute with gluten-free lasagna sheets rolled up.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in individual portions or as a whole dish. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

What should I serve with manicotti?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Manicotti is the ultimate cheesy pasta bake—rich, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you keep it classic with ricotta or add your own twist with meat or veggies, it’s a dish that always delivers. Ideal for weeknights, gatherings, or make-ahead meals, this manicotti recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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