Cheesy Baked Manicotti

 Serves: 4-6

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional, for a hint of greens)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust for spice tolerance)

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 tsp crushed fennel seeds

• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 cup tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 manicotti shells (or large pasta tubes)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), garlic, basil, oregano, smoked paprika, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the sauce.

2. Make the Sauce:

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

2. Stir in garlic, fennel seeds, and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful. Remove from heat.

3. Cook the Manicotti Shells:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook manicotti shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water. Set aside.

4. Stuff the Manicotti:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spoon the filling into a piping bag (or a large zip-top bag with the corner snipped). Carefully pipe the filling into each manicotti shell, ensuring they are generously stuffed.

5. Assemble the Dish:

1. Spread a layer of sauce across the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti over the sauce in a single layer.

2. Spoon the remaining sauce over the manicotti, ensuring they are well covered.

3. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve this beauty with warm garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, fries and a glass of your favorite red wine. Enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness of every bite! 🍷