Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner option that combines the richness of meat with the comfort of pasta? Look no further! The meat stuffed manicotti recipe is a mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving more. Made with layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and savory ground meat, this recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends.
Meat stuffed manicotti, also known as Italian meat-stuffed pasta, is a traditional Italian dish that has been passed down through generations. The name “manicotti” comes from the Italian word “manicotto,” which means “little hand,” referring to the shape of the pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, especially during the colder months when a warm and hearty meal is needed to keep everyone cozy.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect meat stuffed manicotti recipe:
Ingredients:
– 12 manicotti pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet, breaking them up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, mix the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Once the meat sauce is ready, spread a thin layer of the sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Fill each manicotti shell with a spoonful of the meat mixture, then place them in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
9. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the manicotti shells, ensuring they are well-coated.
10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade meat stuffed manicotti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for entertaining, as it can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving. Impress your guests with this classic Italian favorite that’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner party!
