Ingredients
- 12 manicotti shells
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste. You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or add spinach for extra nutrition.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, cooked sausage, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each manicotti shell with the sausage and cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors with your loved ones!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International