When the weekend rolls around, my kitchen transforms into a sanctuary, inviting comfort and warmth. One of my all-time favorite culinary creations are these delightful manicotti shells, filled with a luscious ricotta mixture that could make anyone swoon. The magic of this dish lies not only in its enticing aroma but also in how effortless it is to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you can impress your loved ones with a meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Imagine the first bite—the creamy ricotta laced with a hint of parsley, perfectly enveloped in tender pasta, all bathed in rich, tangy spaghetti sauce. It’s a celebration of flavors, perfect for those cozy nights when you want something homemade, yet satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just looking to move past takeout, these manicotti shells are your ticket to bringing the joy of homemade food back into your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s not just a meal, but a memory!
Why are Manicotti Shells a must-try?
Deliciously Creamy: The rich ricotta filling creates an indulgent experience that is simply irresistible.
Effortless Preparation: This recipe requires minimal skills, making it accessible for everyone, from beginners to seasoned chefs.
Hearty Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, these shells bring warmth to your dining table.
Flavor Fusion: The combination of herbs and spices enhances every bite, leaving you wanting more.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal, proving this dish’s adaptable nature.
Feel free to explore more delightful family meals with our other creamy pasta recipes for additional inspiration!
Manicotti Shells Ingredients
For the Pasta
– Manicotti shells – Opt for pre-cooked for easy assembly, allowing you to focus on that delicious ricotta filling.
– Olive oil – A drizzle can keep the cooked shells from sticking together while enhancing flavor.
For the Ricotta Filling
– Ricotta cheese – This creamy cheese is the star of the show, bringing a rich taste that perfectly complements the shells.
– Grated Romano cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor that elevates the filling to new heights.
– Egg – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring your filling stays together beautifully in every bite.
– Fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes – Adds a refreshing hint of herbaceousness; fresh really shines in this creamy mix!
For the Sauce
– Meatless spaghetti sauce – A hearty choice to smother over the filled shells, creating a comforting, wholesome meal.
– Additional grated Romano cheese (optional) – For those who crave that extra cheesy finish, a sprinkle on top before serving enhances the dish further.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get to the exciting part of assembling these manicotti shells!
How to Make Manicotti Shells
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Prep the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup whole milk, 3 large eggs, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth and lump-free; the batter should be slightly runny.
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Cook the Shells: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in a ladleful of batter to form a crepe, cooking 1-2 minutes until golden brown on one side, then flip and cook for another minute. Transfer to a plate and repeat until all batter is used.
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Mix the Filling: In another bowl, thoroughly combine 1-1/2 pounds ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese, 1 large beaten egg, and 1 tablespoon of minced parsley. This creamy filling should be rich and flavorful.
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Stuff the Shells: Take each crepe and spoon a generous amount of the ricotta mixture into the center. Roll it up gently, tucking in the ends to enclose the filling securely.
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Assemble in Baking Dish: Place the filled manicotti shells seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour over 1 jar (26 ounces) of meatless spaghetti sauce, ensuring each shell is nicely coated.
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Add Cheese: If desired, sprinkle more grated Romano cheese on top of the sauce for that extra cheesy goodness.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the dish for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbling with deliciousness.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These manicotti shells are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crepes and ricotta filling up to 24 hours in advance, making your busy weeknights easier. Simply cook the crepes and allow them to cool completely before stacking them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Mix the ricotta, Romano cheese, egg, and parsley, then refrigerate the filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just stuff the crepes and arrange them in the baking dish, covering with spaghetti sauce before baking (for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F). This way, your manicotti shells will be just as delicious and comforting while saving you time!
Expert Tips for Manicotti Shells
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Crepe Consistency: Ensure your batter is smooth and thin. A thick batter can lead to tough, chewy shells. Perfect texture yields flavorful manicotti shells.
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Even Cooking: Use low to medium heat when cooking the shells. Too high can burn the edges before the center is fully cooked, resulting in unevenly cooked manicotti shells.
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Filling Amount: Don’t overstuff the shells; a generous spoonful per crepe is ideal. Overfilling may cause them to burst while baking, so keep it balanced.
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Sauce Coverage: Make sure each shell is well-coated in the spaghetti sauce before baking. This prevents drying out during baking, keeping your manicotti moist and delicious.
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Cheese Choice: Experiment with cheese! Adding different cheeses like mozzarella to the ricotta mixture can take your manicotti shells to the next level, enhancing that creamy goodness.
Manicotti Shells Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on classic manicotti shells that will elevate your dish and ignite your creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a blend of gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
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Spinach-Ricotta Boost: Add 1-2 cups of fresh spinach to the ricotta filling for a nutritious and colorful twist.
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Zesty Cheese: Mix in some crumbled feta cheese with the ricotta for a tangy surprise that enhances the flavor profile.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the ricotta filling for a delightful kick that awakens the taste buds.
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Mushroom Medley: Sauté diced mushrooms until golden and fold them into the filling for an earthy addition that complements the ricotta beautifully.
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Richer Flavor: Try using a combination of ricotta and mascarpone cheese for an even creamier texture that’s decadently delicious.
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Veggie Lovers: Replace the meatless spaghetti sauce with a homemade roasted vegetable sauce for a rustic and wholesome alternative.
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Cheesy Topping: Swap additional grated Romano cheese for shredded mozzarella to create a gooey, melty topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Embrace these variations to make your manicotti shells uniquely yours, inviting flavor adventures that will have your family asking for more!
What to Serve with Crepes with Ricotta Filling?
Elevate your crepes into a delightful meal with these satisfying pairings that dance with flavor and texture.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A mixture of crisp greens and vibrant veggies brightens the plate and adds a refreshing crunch to complement the creamy filling.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic bread creates a perfect pairing, allowing you to soak up every drop of spaghetti sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: This subtly sweet vegetable not only offers a lovely contrast in texture but also brings a pop of color and nutrition to your meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt turn this elegant vegetable into a tender side that beautifully contrasts the rich cheese.
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Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts, enhanced by a balsamic glaze, pairs well with the sweetness of the ricotta and sauce.
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Sparking Lemonade: This refreshing drink provides a zesty kick that balances the richness of your crepes, inviting laughter and conversation at your table.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light yet decadent treat offers a sweet finale to the meal, its airy texture a delightful contrast to the creamy main dish.
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Italian Red Wine: A nice Chianti or Sangiovese can enhance the flavors of both sauce and filling, making your dinner truly memorable.
How to Store and Freeze Manicotti Shells
Fridge: Store leftover manicotti shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. Ensure the filled shells are covered in sauce to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze manicotti shells before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat filled manicotti shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist.
Leftover Ricotta Filling: Any unused ricotta filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container, perfect for adding to salads or as a dip!
Manicotti Shells Recipe FAQs
What type of ricotta cheese should I use for the filling?
I recommend using whole-milk ricotta for its rich and creamy texture, which enhances the flavor of your manicotti shells. If possible, look for fresh ricotta at your local cheese shop or deli, as it tends to have a better taste and texture than many pre-packaged varieties.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store leftover manicotti shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep your filled shells fresh and delicious, ensure they are covered with sauce, which helps prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze manicotti shells?
Yes! You can freeze manicotti shells either before or after baking. To do this, wrap the filled shells tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe dish or wrap with aluminum foil, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If your ricotta filling turns out too runny, try adding a little more grated Romano cheese or even some breadcrumbs. These ingredients can help absorb excess moisture. Additionally, letting the filling sit in the fridge for a half-hour can firm it up slightly, making it easier to stuff your manicotti shells.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free ricotta alternative made from nuts or tofu. Also, for gluten-free options, look for gluten-free manicotti shells at your local grocery store and ensure that all other ingredients, including sauces and cheeses, are gluten-free.
Irresistible Manicotti Shells Stuffed with Creamy Ricotta Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, eggs, and salt; whisk until smooth.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and pour in batter to form crepes; cook until golden.
- Mix ricotta, grated Romano, egg, and parsley in a bowl until combined.
- Stuff each crepe with the ricotta mixture and roll up neatly.
- Place the filled shells in a baking dish and cover with spaghetti sauce.
- Sprinkle with more Romano cheese if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.