Are you ready to dive into a cheesy, beef-filled delight? This beef and cheese manicotti recipe is your ultimate solution for a comforting dinner that everyone will love. With layers of rich flavors, this dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with creamy cheese, making it a perfect fit for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s an easy manicotti recipe with ground beef that you can whip up in no time!
If you’ve ever wished for a stuffed manicotti recipe that brings together all your favorite elements, look no further. This recipe takes the classic meat manicotti and gives it a delicious twist, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it on a special occasion or just for a weeknight treat, this beef manicotti recipe is sure to satisfy.
Exploring the Richness of Beef and Cheese Manicotti
Beef and cheese manicotti stands out as a delightful dish that can cater to various palates. This stuffed pasta creation features a harmony of flavors, making it a favorite among many. The combination of savory ground beef and creamy ricotta encapsulated in tender manicotti shells offers a satisfying meal experience.
Whether you’re seeking a comforting dinner option or something special for gatherings, this beef manicotti recipe has all the elements for success. The dish can also be easily adapted, allowing for variations like sausage manicotti or even a chicken manicotti recipe. It’s this versatility that makes it a staple in many homes.
The Heart of the Dish: Savory Stuffing
At the core of this delicious beef and cheese stuffed manicotti lies a flavorful mixture of ground beef, ricotta, and a blend of Italian herbs. Each bite bursts with the richness of the cheeses complemented by the savory notes of the beef.
Using high-quality ingredients enhances the overall taste, transforming a simple meal into a delightful culinary experience. Incorporating spices like garlic powder and Italian seasoning not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds depth to the dish. This balance of savory and creamy elements is what draws many to the classic meat manicotti recipe.
Preparation: A Simple and Enjoyable Process
Preparing beef and cheese manicotti is straightforward, making it an approachable dish for cooks of all skill levels. It begins with cooking the manicotti shells until they reach the perfect al dente texture. This step is crucial, as the pasta should be sturdy enough to hold the flavorful stuffing without breaking.
Next, the ground beef is cooked until browned, then mixed with the ricotta and various spices. Stuffing the manicotti shells requires a little patience, but the result is well worth the effort. Layering the stuffed pasta in marinara sauce before baking creates a comforting, hearty meal.
Baking to Golden Perfection
The baking process is a key part of making beef manicotti. The dish is covered with foil initially to trap moisture, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly. Once the foil is removed, the cheese on top bubbles and turns a lovely golden color.
Watching the cheese melt and mingle with the marinara sauce creates an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen. The anticipation builds as the dish nears completion, promising a warm and filling meal that family and friends will enjoy.
Presentation: Serving with Style
After baking, the manicotti is allowed to cool slightly, making it easier to serve. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal. Serving this beef and cheese manicotti on a rustic wooden dining table adds to the cozy atmosphere, inviting everyone to gather around and savor the meal together.
This dish can be paired with a simple salad or garlic bread, providing a complete dining experience. The visual presentation, combined with the delightful flavors, makes it a dish worth sharing.
Exploring Variations of Manicotti
The beauty of manicotti is its adaptability. While this recipe focuses on a beef filling, consider experimenting with other ingredients. A sausage manicotti recipe introduces a different flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
For a lighter option, a chicken manicotti recipe can replace the beef, offering a unique twist on the classic dish. Vegetarian versions are also possible, using ricotta and spinach or other vegetables for stuffing. Each variation allows for creativity in the kitchen while still embracing the comforting essence of stuffed pasta manicotti.
Delicious Beef and Cheese Stuffed Manicotti
This beef manicotti recipe features tender pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cheese, and Italian herbs. Baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, the dish is not just filling but also has a wonderful balance of flavors. The taste is a delightful combination of savory and cheesy goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 12 manicotti shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well and then fold in the cooked ground beef.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each manicotti shell with the beef and cheese mixture and arrange them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
