meat filled manicotti recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best meat filled manicotti recipe

I’ve been making meat-filled manicotti for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated in Italy, where it’s known as ‘manicotti ripieni.’ It’s a classic recipe that’s easy to make and customize to your taste.

The key to making great manicotti is using fresh pasta and a flavorful meat filling. I like to use a combination of ground beef and pork for the filling, but you can also use just one or the other if you prefer. The secret to getting the pasta right is to cook it al dente, so it still has some bite to it.

This makes it easier to roll up and fill with the meat mixture. I like to use a combination of ricotta and parmesan cheese in the filling, but you can also use just one or the other if you prefer. The cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish that’s hard to resist.

One of the best things about manicotti is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, or as a side dish at a family gathering. It’s also easy to reheat and serve at a later time, making it perfect for meal prep or for serving at parties.

My kids love helping me make manicotti because they get to help with the rolling and filling process. It’s a fun activity that we all enjoy together. Overall, meat-filled manicotti is a classic recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Meat Filled Manicotti

4.5 from 1850 votes

This hearty meat filled manicotti recipe features a rich tomato sauce and tender pasta tubes stuffed with a savory meat filling. A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp water

For the Meat Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp sugar
salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

1 lb manicotti pasta tubes
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2In a large bowl, combine flour, eggs, salt, and water.
3Knead until a smooth dough forms.
4Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5In a large skillet, cook ground beef and pork over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
6Drain excess fat.
7Add chopped onion and minced garlic, then cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
8In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
9Combine the cheese mixture with the cooked meat mixture.
10In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
11Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12Cook manicotti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
13Drain and set aside.
14Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
15Stuff each manicotti tube with the meat and cheese filling.
16Place the stuffed manicotti in the baking dish, seam side down.
17Pour the remaining sauce over the manicotti, ensuring they are well coated.
18Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the manicotti.
19Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
20Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
21Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving.
22Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Large skillet
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the meat filling. You can also add spinach or other vegetables to the filling for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Meat Filled Manicotti Works

Meat-filled manicotti is always a good idea for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish at a family gathering.

It’s easy to reheat and serve at a later time, making it perfect for meal prep or for serving at parties.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is – you can adjust the amount of cheese and meat to your liking, and add your own favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Meat Filled Manicotti

What type of pasta should I use for manicotti?

The best type of pasta to use for manicotti is fresh pasta made from ’00’ flour. This type of flour produces a smooth and pliable dough that’s perfect for rolling out into thin sheets.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh if you prefer, but be sure to thaw it first and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the filling.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

To prevent the pasta from sticking together, be sure to cook it al dente and then let it cool completely before rolling it up with the filling.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

You can make the filling ahead of time if you prefer, but be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

How do I reheat leftover manicotti?

You can reheat leftover manicotti in the oven or on the stovetop by covering it with foil and heating until warmed through.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts