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Million Dollar Manicotti

Million Dollar Manicotti: Ultimate Comfort Food Creation

Experience the rich flavors of Million Dollar Manicotti, a creamy and cheesy comfort food delight perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese can be substituted with mascarpone
  • 2/3 cup Parmesan Cheese can be replaced with pecorino
  • 2 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded, plus extra for topping
  • 1 Egg or flax egg for vegan option
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced or substitute with garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning use fresh herbs as an alternative
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil fresh basil can enhance the dish
For the Sauce & Pasta
  • 12 oz Manicotti Shells cannelloni can be used if needed
  • 2 cup Marinara Sauce homemade or jarred
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or substitute with turkey, chicken, or lentils
  • to taste Kosher Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • piping bag

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully add the manicotti shells. Cook for 3-4 minutes until pliable, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Stir in 2 cups of marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan, and 2 cups of mozzarella. Add the egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Mix until well combined.
  6. Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture. Place the filled shells upright in the baking dish.
  7. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the filled manicotti shells and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes.
  8. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and add the remaining mozzarella. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Let the Million Dollar Manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for a hassle-free meal.

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