Baked Cheese Manicotti

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing, cheesy, and comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Baked Cheese Manicotti is your new go-to recipe. This classic Italian-American dish combines tender pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy, flavorful cheese filling, all smothered in rich tomato sauce and baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Baked Cheese Manicotti offers a deliciously satisfying experience that elevates any dinner night without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Cheesy Goodness: Every bite blends ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a truly luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
• Family-Friendly Comfort Food: This dish appeals to all ages, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
• Effortless yet Elegant: Simple ingredients combined with straightforward steps create a meal that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready to serve, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
• Customizable Flavors: Easily tailored to your taste or dietary preferences, from adding fresh herbs to using gluten-free pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Cheese Manicotti lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each plays a pivotal role in creating that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with a satisfyingly rich texture and vibrant appearance.

• Manicotti Pasta: Pre-cooked or no-boil tubes provide the perfect edible vessel for the cheese filling.
• Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base that gives the filling its smooth, luscious texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds gooey stretchiness and mild flavor that complements the ricotta perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty kick to elevate the cheese mix.
• Marinara or Tomato Sauce: A rich, seasoned red sauce to generously coat the manicotti before baking.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the cheese filling from being too loose.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma.
• Garlic, Salt, and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the deepest flavors.

Variations for Baked Cheese Manicotti

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients, textures, and flavors to fit your mood or dietary needs without losing any of its comforting charm.

• Spinach Addition: Mix fresh or frozen spinach into the cheese filling for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
• Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken into the filling for extra heartiness.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular manicotti with gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese substitutes and tofu ricotta blends to create a plant-based delight.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce or filling for a subtle kick.

How to Make Baked Cheese Manicotti

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Boil the manicotti tubes in salted water until al dente, then rinse with cold water to cool and prevent sticking. Alternatively, use no-boil manicotti to save time and skip this step.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, a beaten egg, chopped parsley or basil, and season with garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth and evenly mixed.

Step 3: Stuff the Manicotti Tubes

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture. Set them aside on a tray as you fill them all.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Spread a layer of marinara or tomato sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish, arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer, and pour the remaining sauce over them. Top with extra shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Perfect

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown and bubble beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cheese Manicotti

• Use Whole-Milk Ricotta: It gives the creamiest texture and richest flavor to your filling.
• Don’t Overfill the Tubes: Stuffing just enough prevents the manicotti from bursting open during baking.
• Reserve Some Sauce: Keep a little sauce back to serve on the side for extra moisture.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh parsley or basil incorporated into the filling brightens the overall dish.
• Let It Rest: Allow the baked manicotti to sit for 10 minutes post-baking to set and make serving easier.

How to Serve Baked Cheese Manicotti

Garnishes

Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness, while a light dusting of grated Parmesan enhances the cheesy aroma and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Cheese Manicotti with a crunchy Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the richness and complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual manicotti portions on elegant plates garnished with edible flowers or drizzle extra warmed marinara sauce around the edges for a restaurant-quality look at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Baked Cheese Manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully either before or after baking; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil manicotti pasta for this recipe?

Yes, no-boil manicotti can save time; just make sure to add a bit more sauce in the baking dish to help the pasta cook fully.

What cheeses work best for the filling?

A mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives the perfect creamy, melty, and flavorful filling.

Is it necessary to use an egg in the filling?

The egg acts as a binder to hold the filling together but can be omitted for an egg-free version; just keep the filling a bit thicker to compensate.

How long does Baked Cheese Manicotti take to bake?

Typically, it bakes covered at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese on top.

Can I prepare Baked Cheese Manicotti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day before and refrigerate, then bake fresh when ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cheese Manicotti is one of those delightful dishes that brings comfort, flavor, and joy to dinner — all with simple ingredients and satisfying results. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo, this recipe has a way of making every dinner night feel special. Give it a try, and you might just find your next favorite meal to enjoy again and again.

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