Manicotti Recipe: A Creamy Delight with Ricotta Cheese
Guide or Summary：ManicottiRicotta CheeseIngredientsInstructionsManicottiManicotti, a beloved Italian dish, offers a unique blend of flavors and textures tha……
Guide or Summary：
Manicotti
Manicotti, a beloved Italian dish, offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that make it a standout in the world of pasta. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, this dish features tender, layered pasta tubes filled with a savory or sweet filling, then baked to perfection with a rich tomato sauce or cheese topping. One of the most popular fillings for manicotti is ricotta cheese, which adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish beautifully. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making a mouthwatering manicotti recipe that features ricotta cheese as its star ingredient.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is a versatile and essential ingredient in Italian cooking, known for its creamy consistency and mild flavor. It is traditionally made from the whey left over after the production of mozzarella or other cheeses. Ricotta cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. In this manicotti recipe, ricotta cheese will be the filling of choice, providing a creamy and slightly sweet contrast to the savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients
To make a delicious manicotti dish with ricotta cheese, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12-16 manicotti tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Manicotti Tubes:** If you are not using pre-cooked manicotti tubes, you will need to cook them according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
3. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. **Fill the Manicotti Tubes:** Using a spoon or a pastry bag, fill each manicotti tube with the ricotta cheese mixture. Make sure to fill each tube evenly and tightly.
5. **Assemble the Manicotti:** Place the filled manicotti tubes in a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Pour the marinara sauce over the manicotti tubes, making sure they are fully coated.
6. **Add the Cheese Topping:** Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the manicotti tubes and sauce. You can add as much cheese as you like, depending on your preference.
7. **Bake:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the manicotti is heated through.
8. **Serve:** Remove the manicotti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
This manicotti recipe with ricotta cheese is a hearty and delicious Italian dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of the creamy ricotta cheese filling and the savory tomato sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you're serving this dish to a crowd or enjoying it with your loved ones, it's sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make a mouthwatering manicotti with ricotta cheese that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Buon appetito!