Classic Manicotti: An Authentic Italian Pasta Bake

Manicotti is a beloved staple of Italian-American cuisine, cherished for its comforting combination of pasta — stuffed with a creamy blend of cheeses — and finished with a savory tomato sauce. This hearty baked pasta dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion when you want to serve a meal that warms both the heart and the table. Our guide walks you through every step of creating perfect manicotti at home, from boiling the pasta to making a flavorful filling and assembling the final bake.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Manicotti
• Serving Suggestions
• Nutritional Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Ingredients

Gather these fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a classic manicotti dish that will impress friends and family alike. Exact measurements ensure a well-balanced filling and perfectly sauced bake.

• 5 ½ ounces manicotti pasta (about 14 shells)
• 1 pint part-skim ricotta cheese
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (16 ounce) jar spaghetti or marinara sauce
• Optional: Fresh basil or extra grated cheese for garnish

Tip: For the best results, use high-quality ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. You may substitute half of the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter texture or add a handful of fresh chopped spinach for extra flavor and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a flawless baked manicotti. Take your time with each step for the best results.

1. Prepare the Manicotti Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Carefully add manicotti shells and cook according to package directions (usually 7-9 minutes), until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay the shells flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Cheese Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 6 ounces of mozzarella (reserve the rest for topping), ½ cup grated Parmesan (reserve the rest), eggs, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Fill the Manicotti Shells

• Spoon the cheese mixture into a pastry bag or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
• Carefully pipe the filling into each manicotti shell. Alternatively, use a small spoon to gently fill each tube, taking care not to break the pasta.

4. Assemble the Manicotti Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
• Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the manicotti.
• Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.

5. Bake

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling.
• Let the manicotti rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes for easier slicing.

Tips for Perfect Manicotti

• Prevent Breaking: Handle cooked pasta gently, and avoid overcooking the shells to keep them intact during stuffing.
• Easy Filling: A piping bag or a sturdy plastic bag makes filling the manicotti quick and clean. Don’t overfill to prevent splitting.
• Flavor Variations: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or fresh herbs to the cheese mixture for extra flavor and color.
• Make Ahead: Stuffed manicotti can be assembled up to one day in advance, covered, and refrigerated. Add 5–10 minutes to the bake time if cold from the fridge.
• Freezer Friendly: Assemble manicotti in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

Manicotti shines as a main course, especially when paired with a few classic side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A crisp, tangy salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta bake.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal.

For an authentic Italian-American dinner, finish with a light dessert such as panna cotta, tiramisu, or a dish of fresh berries.

Nutritional Information

Exact values may vary depending on the brands and serving sizes used, but here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 7 servings):

Note: This nutritional information does not include optional garnishes or side dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare manicotti in advance?

Yes! Stuffed manicotti can be assembled a day ahead, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerated. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to compensate for the chilled ingredients.

Do I have to boil the manicotti shells before stuffing?

It is best to cook the shells until just al dente, as this makes them pliable enough to fill without breaking. Some no-boil manicotti shells are available, but these usually require a very saucy bake and a longer cooking time.

Can I freeze manicotti before or after baking?

Yes, manicotti is very freezer-friendly. Assemble the dish but do not bake, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze. Thaw overnight before baking. Leftover baked manicotti can also be frozen, then reheated until warmed through.

What is the best way to fill manicotti shells?

The easiest method is to use a piping bag or a large resealable bag with a corner snipped off. This helps you fill the shells evenly and quickly, reducing breakage.

Are there other filling options besides cheese?

While traditional manicotti features a cheese filling, you can also add cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or seasoned ground meat to the mixture for variety.

Conclusion

This classic manicotti recipe delivers satisfying flavor, creamy texture, and the homey comfort of a traditional Italian pasta bake. With detailed guidance and pro tips, you can easily master this crowd-pleasing dish for your next family meal or special occasion. Buon appetito!

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman