Name: Stuffed Manicotti Meat Sauce: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 105 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 (12 ounce) package manicotti shells; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce: Prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that will transport you straight to Nonna's kitchen! Imagine tender, perfectly cooked manicotti shells, overflowing with a rich and savory ricotta cheese filling, all smothered in a luscious, homemade meat sauce. This isn't just dinner; it's an experience, a comforting hug on a plate that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Manicotti, derived from the Italian word for "sleeves," has a rich history rooted in Italian-American cuisine. While the exact origins are debated, it's widely believed that this dish evolved as Italian immigrants adapted traditional pasta recipes to the ingredients available in their new home. It quickly became a staple, a symbol of family gatherings and shared meals, passed down through generations.

What makes stuffed manicotti with meat sauce so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The creamy, cheesy filling contrasts beautifully with the slightly chewy pasta shells, while the hearty meat sauce adds a depth of flavor that is simply divine. Plus, it's a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So, let's get cooking and create a dish that will become a cherished family favorite!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 (12 ounce) package manicotti shells
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Be sure to break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. This is a great time to prep your cheese filling!

Preparing the Cheese Filling:

While the meat sauce is simmering, prepare the cheese filling. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
Add the lightly beaten egg and ground nutmeg. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined and the filling is smooth.
Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the meat sauce is already seasoned, so don't overdo it!

Cooking the Manicotti Shells:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the manicotti shells to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually for about 8-10 minutes. You want them to be al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. They will continue to cook in the oven.
Carefully drain the manicotti shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Gently lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Stuffing the Manicotti:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce (about 1 cup) evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This will prevent the manicotti from sticking and add flavor.
Now comes the fun part: stuffing the manicotti! There are a couple of ways to do this. You can use a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, or you can use a spoon. I find a piping bag to be the easiest and cleanest method.
If using a piping bag, fill the bag with the cheese filling. Gently insert the tip of the piping bag into one end of a manicotti shell and squeeze the filling into the shell until it is completely filled. Repeat with the other end.
If using a spoon, carefully spoon the cheese filling into each end of the manicotti shell, using your fingers to gently push the filling through until the shell is completely filled.
Place the stuffed manicotti shells in the prepared baking dish, side by side, in a single layer.

Assembling and Baking:

Once all the manicotti shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the top, making sure to cover all the shells.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat sauce.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the manicotti moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown.
Let the manicotti rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the stuffed manicotti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. A side salad and some crusty bread would be a perfect accompaniment. You can also serve it with extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top.

Tips and Variations:

Meat Variations: Feel free to use all ground beef, all Italian sausage, or even a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers to the sauce.
Cheese Variations: You can substitute part of the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a slightly different flavor and texture. You can also add a little provolone cheese to the mozzarella for a richer flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder sauce, omit them altogether.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the manicotti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freezing: Stuffed manicotti freezes well. Assemble the manicotti in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Adding Spinach: Mix in some cooked and drained spinach to the ricotta cheese mixture for added nutrients and flavor. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach before adding it to the cheese mixture.
Using Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano, basil, and thyme on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

Enjoy!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce recipe, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to put together. I know, I know, "stuffed" anything can sound intimidating, but trust me, this is one of those dishes that looks far more impressive than the effort it requires. The rich, savory meat sauce, combined with the creamy, cheesy filling nestled inside those perfectly cooked manicotti shells, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone begging for seconds. Why is this a must-try? Because it's comfort food elevated. It's the kind of dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. It's also incredibly versatile. While I've shared my go-to meat sauce recipe, feel free to experiment with your own favorite sauce. A creamy tomato sauce, a spicy arrabbiata, or even a pesto sauce would all work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Speaking of versatility, let's talk serving suggestions and variations. For a complete meal, I love serving this Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the pasta, creating a perfect balance. Garlic bread is also a classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious sauce. If you're looking to add even more flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, over the finished dish. A dollop of ricotta cheese on top adds an extra layer of creaminess. For a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the meat sauce with a vegetable-based sauce. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini would be a delicious and healthy alternative. You could even add some roasted vegetables like bell peppers and eggplant for a more robust flavor. Another variation I enjoy is adding a layer of béchamel sauce on top before baking. This creates an incredibly decadent and creamy dish that's perfect for special occasions. You can also experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Try adding some provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. A little bit of Parmesan cheese grated on top before baking adds a nice salty and nutty flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! That's the beauty of cooking – it's all about experimenting and finding what you love.

Time to Get Cooking!

I truly believe that this Stuffed Manicotti with Meat Sauce will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It's a dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even potlucks. It's also a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the manicotti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to cook. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments with me – I can't wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!