Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti perfect dinner meal

"Delicious Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti Recipe for the Perfect Dinner Meal"

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with this Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti recipe. The tender pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and creamy cheese all baked to perfection in a bed of tangy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or to impress guests at a dinner party. Follow this recipe and experience the decadence of Italian comfort food right in your own kitchen.

 

Preparing time        : 25 minutes

Cooking time            : 45 minutes

Total time                 : 70 minutes

Yield                          : 8 servings

 

Nutrition’s

The nutrition information for Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti can vary depending on the specific ingredients and amounts used in the recipe. However, here is a rough estimate of the nutrition for a serving size of two manicotti shells:

Nutrition
Calories	460
Total fat	18g
Saturated fat	9g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	790mg
Total Carbohydrates	43g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	8g
Protein	31g

Keep in mind that this is just an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and amounts used.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 box of Manicotti shells
• 1 lb of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

 

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 01: Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 02: Cook the manicotti shells according to the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.

Step 03: In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

Step 04: Add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the pan and stir to combine.

Step 05: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 06: Stuff each cooked manicotti shell with the beef mixture, using a small spoon or piping bag.

Step 07: Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.

Step 08: Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 09: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 10: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11: Let the manicotti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

 

Serving Tips

Here are some serving ideas for Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti:

1. Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing pairs perfectly with this rich and hearty dish.

 

2. Garlic bread: Garlic bread is an ideal accompaniment for this dish. You can make your own or buy a pre-made one from the store.

 

3. Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms are a great complement to the flavors of the beef and cheese.

 

4. Tomato sauce: Drizzle some tomato sauce on top of the baked manicotti for an extra burst of flavor.

 

5. Breadsticks: Serve some warm and crispy breadsticks alongside the dish for dipping in the cheesy sauce.

 

6. Red wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the beef and cheese.

 

7. Fresh herbs: Add some fresh basil, parsley, or oregano on top of the baked manicotti for an extra pop of flavor and color.

 

8. Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish before serving for an additional layer of flavor.

 

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make delicious Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti:

1. Cook the manicotti noodles al dente to prevent them from getting mushy when baking.

 

2. Use a piping bag or a plastic zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to easily fill the manicotti shells with the beef and cheese mixture.

 

3. For a shortcut, you can use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own.

 

4. Don't skip the step of browning the ground beef, as it adds flavor to the filling.

 

5. If you have any leftover filling, you can use it as a topping for a baked potato or as a filling for stuffed peppers.

 

6. Let the baked manicotti rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, as this will make it easier to cut and prevent the cheese from oozing out too much.

 

7. You can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the baked manicotti before serving for added flavor.

 

8. If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

 

9. Leftover baked manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

 

FAQs

1. What is Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti is a classic Italian-American dish made with pasta tubes (manicotti), filled with a mixture of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and other seasonings, topped with a tomato sauce and baked in the oven.

 

2. What are some variations of Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

Some variations of Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti include using different types of meat such as ground turkey or pork, adding spinach or other vegetables to the filling, and using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or Parmesan.

 

3. How long does it take to make Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

The total time to make Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti varies, but it typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

 

4. Can I prepare Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti ahead of time?

Yes, Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer before baking. Simply cover with foil and bake as directed when ready to serve.

 

5. Can Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti be made without meat?

Yes, Baked Cheese Manicotti can be made without meat by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables or cheese to the filling.

 

6. How many calories are in a serving of Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

The number of calories in a serving of Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti varies based on the ingredients used, but it typically ranges from 400-600 calories per serving.

 

7. How can I make Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti healthier?

To make Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti healthier, consider using leaner ground beef or turkey, using whole wheat pasta, adding more vegetables to the filling, and using low-fat cheese.

 

8. Can I freeze Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

Yes, Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Simply cover with foil and freeze in an airtight container.

 

9. How can I make the tomato sauce for Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti from scratch?

To make tomato sauce for Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti from scratch, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20-30 minutes and season with salt and pepper to taste.

 

10. What are some side dishes that pair well with Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti?

Some side dishes that pair well with Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti include garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables, and a glass of red wine.

 

Baked Beef and Cheese Manicotti is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. With its rich and savory flavors, it's the perfect meal to make for family gatherings or special occasions. The recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients. By following the tips and tricks provided, you can ensure that your manicotti turns out perfectly every time. So next time you're in the mood for some comfort food, give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty and delicious meal!