Three Cheese Manicotti is a classic Italian-American dish that embodies comfort and indulgence. Tender manicotti pasta shells are generously filled with a rich mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then baked to perfection in a savory marinara sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a satisfying, cheesy delight.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 to 5 ounces uncooked manicotti pasta

• 3 cups spaghetti sauce

• 2 cups ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• ½ tablespoon dried parsley

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Transfer the filling to a piping bag or a sturdy zip-top bag with the tip snipped off.

3. Stuff the Manicotti Shells: Carefully pipe the cheese mixture into each uncooked manicotti shell, filling them generously. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

4. Assemble the Dish: Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.

5. Bake: Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pasta is tender.

6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil over the top. Let the manicotti rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with garlic bread or a fresh salad on the side.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 45g

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Cholesterol: 90mg

• Sodium: 800mg

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 8g

The Origins of Manicotti

Manicotti is an Italian pasta dish that has roots in Southern Italy, although its popularity grew considerably in the United States during the wave of Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While the dish itself may have originally been a simple preparation of pasta and cheese, it became more elaborate as it made its way across the Atlantic. In its traditional form, manicotti is stuffed with ricotta cheese and various fillings, including spinach, meat, or sausage, though the cheese-only version has become a favorite among many for its rich, indulgent texture.

The concept of stuffing pasta into large tubes is not unique to Italy. In fact, many other cuisines feature stuffed pasta, such as the well-known cannelloni in Italian cuisine, or even dishes like the Mexican chili relleno, which involves stuffing chiles. Manicotti, however, has a distinct place in Italian-American cooking, often found on the dinner tables of both Italian households and American restaurants.

The Key Ingredients of Three Cheese Manicotti

While the concept of manicotti is relatively simple, the secret to a successful dish lies in the quality of the ingredients and the harmony between the flavors. In the case of Three Cheese Manicotti, the three primary cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—each play a crucial role in creating the creamy, flavorful filling that defines this dish.

Ricotta cheese is the foundation of the filling, providing a smooth, creamy texture that complements the other ingredients. It is mild in flavor but has a slightly grainy texture, which gives the filling structure and richness. The mozzarella cheese adds a stretchiness that makes the filling gooey and decadent, melting perfectly during the baking process. Finally, Parmesan cheese contributes a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste and adds a level of complexity to the dish. The pasta itself plays a key role, too. Manicotti shells are large and tubular, designed specifically to hold the cheese filling. The soft, chewy pasta holds up well to the rich, creamy filling and marinara sauce. When cooked just right, the pasta should remain al dente, providing a pleasant contrast to the smooth cheese.

The Importance of Sauce in Manicotti

The marinara sauce in Three Cheese Manicotti plays an equally important role in balancing the richness of the cheese filling. The tangy acidity of the tomato sauce cuts through the heaviness of the cheese, creating a well-rounded dish. Traditional marinara sauce is made from tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and a variety of herbs such as basil and oregano, creating a simple yet flavorful base that enhances the overall experience.

In some variations of the dish, the marinara sauce may be enriched with additional ingredients like onions, bell peppers, or even a touch of red wine for added depth. However, the classic marinara sauce is always a safe bet, as it complements the cheese filling perfectly without overpowering it.

Nutritional Value of Three Cheese Manicotti

While Three Cheese Manicotti is undeniably indulgent, it also offers several nutritional benefits. The three cheeses provide a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. Ricotta cheese, in particular, is lower in fat than other cheeses, making it a lighter option for filling the manicotti shells without compromising on creaminess.

The marinara sauce provides a dose of vitamins, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes, which supports immune health and skin repair. Additionally, the sauce contains antioxidants like lycopene, which have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced cancer risk.

Serving Suggestions for Three Cheese Manicotti

Three Cheese Manicotti is a hearty dish that can be served in many different ways. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion. For a light and refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, consider serving it with a simple green salad, perhaps with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing. The acidity and freshness of the salad will complement the heaviness of the manicotti and balance out the meal.

Garlic bread is another classic side dish that goes hand-in-hand with Three Cheese Manicotti. The crispy, buttery bread provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft, cheesy pasta. You can also serve the manicotti with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, which will add more texture and nutritional value to the meal. For those who want to add more protein to the dish, consider serving Three Cheese Manicotti with a side of grilled chicken or a simple meatball. The flavors of the grilled chicken will complement the cheesy pasta, and the meatball adds an extra layer of heartiness to the meal.

Variations of Three Cheese Manicotti

While the classic Three Cheese Manicotti recipe is beloved for its rich, indulgent filling, there are many variations that can be made to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Some people like to add spinach to the cheese filling, which not only adds a pop of color but also increases the dish’s nutritional content. The spinach provides additional vitamins and minerals, including iron and fiber, making the dish even more balanced.

For those who prefer a meaty version, ground beef, sausage, or turkey can be added to the filling. This variation is perfect for meat lovers and can be adapted to use whatever protein you prefer. The meat can be cooked and crumbled before being mixed with the cheese, adding richness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Three Cheese Manicotti is a classic comfort food that combines the best of Italian-American cuisine. With its creamy cheese filling, tender pasta, and savory marinara sauce, it’s no wonder that this dish has become a family favorite. Whether you are preparing it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, Three Cheese Manicotti delivers both delicious flavor and satisfying portions.