Indulge in Delectable Manicotti with Meat: A Culinary Masterpiece

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with our tantalizing manicotti recipe with meat. This classic Italian dish combines tender pasta shells, flavorful meat filling, and a creamy cheese filling, all enveloped in a rich sauce. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this irresistible dish, from selecting the finest ingredients to perfecting the delicate assembly.

As we delve into the nuances of manicotti with meat, we will discover the secrets of creating a succulent filling that bursts with savory flavors, a velvety cheese filling that adds richness and creaminess, and a vibrant sauce that brings the dish to life.

Whether you are a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to create an unforgettable manicotti experience.

Introduction

Manicotti is a classic Italian dish that consists of large pasta tubes stuffed with a flavorful filling and baked in a rich sauce. It’s a popular choice for special occasions and family gatherings due to its impressive presentation and delicious taste.

In this recipe, we’ll be using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for the filling, which adds a savory and meaty flavor to the dish. The meat not only enhances the overall taste but also provides a satisfying texture to the manicotti.

Ingredients: Manicotti Recipe With Meat

To prepare this delectable manicotti dish, you’ll need a combination of ingredients that contribute to its rich flavors and textures.

To enhance the richness of your manicotti recipe with meat, consider adding a drizzle of homemade lavender simple syrup. Click here for a lavender simple syrup recipe that will elevate your dish with its floral notes. Once prepared, return to your manicotti and complete the cooking process as desired.

The recipe calls for the following:

Pasta Shells

• 1 package (9 ounces) of manicotti pasta shells

Meat Filling

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Filling

• 1 (15 ounce) container of ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sauce, Manicotti recipe with meat

• 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup of chopped onion
• 1/2 cup of chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Preparing manicotti involves several steps, each requiring attention to detail to ensure the dish’s success. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps:

Preparing the Pasta Shells

The first step is to prepare the pasta shells. Here’s how:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook according to the package directions. Typically, it takes around 8-10 minutes or until the shells are al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
2. Once cooked, immediately drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step helps prevent the shells from overcooking and becoming mushy.
3. Gently separate the shells and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to dry slightly. This will make them easier to handle when filling.

Making the Meat Filling

Next, it’s time to prepare the meat filling:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Creating the Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, prepare the cheese filling:

• Combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Assembling the Manicotti

Now, it’s time to assemble the manicotti:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Fill each manicotti shell with the meat filling and then the cheese filling.
4. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Baking the Manicotti

Finally, it’s time to bake the manicotti:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the manicotti is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
3. Let the manicotti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

The classic manicotti recipe can be customized in numerous ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Experiment with various fillings, sauces, and cooking techniques to create a unique and delicious dish.

Here are some popular variations on the traditional manicotti recipe:

Meat Fillings

• Beef:Ground beef is a classic filling for manicotti, providing a hearty and flavorful base. Season the ground beef with your favorite herbs and spices for added depth of flavor.
• Pork:Ground pork is another excellent choice for manicotti filling. Its slightly sweet and fatty flavor pairs well with the creamy cheese filling.
• Veal:Ground veal is a more delicate and expensive option for manicotti filling. It has a mild flavor that allows the other ingredients to shine through.

Cheese Fillings

• Ricotta:Ricotta cheese is a classic filling for manicotti, providing a creamy and slightly tangy flavor. It can be combined with other cheeses, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for a richer flavor.
• Mozzarella:Mozzarella cheese is a good melting cheese that adds a gooey and stretchy texture to manicotti. It can be used alone or combined with other cheeses for a more complex flavor.
• Parmesan:Parmesan cheese is a hard, grating cheese that adds a nutty and salty flavor to manicotti. It is often used as a topping or mixed into the cheese filling for added depth of flavor.

Sauces

• Tomato sauce:Tomato sauce is the classic sauce for manicotti. It can be made from scratch using fresh or canned tomatoes, or you can use a store-bought sauce for convenience.
• Alfredo sauce:Alfredo sauce is a creamy and cheesy sauce that pairs well with manicotti. It can be made from scratch using butter, flour, and cream, or you can use a store-bought sauce.
• Béchamel sauce:Béchamel sauce is a white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. It is a good choice for manicotti if you want a lighter and more delicate sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be served with various accompaniments to enhance its flavor and presentation.

The rich, hearty nature of manicotti pairs well with lighter side dishes that provide a contrasting texture and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Salads:A crisp, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the manicotti.
• Roasted Vegetables:Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers add a vibrant color and a healthy dose of vegetables to the meal.
• Garlic Bread:Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate the presentation of manicotti, adding both visual appeal and extra flavor.

• Fresh Herbs:A sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley, basil, or oregano adds a vibrant green color and aromatic freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese:A dusting of grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty flavor and a classic Italian touch.
• Lemon Wedges:A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright acidity that complements the richness of the dish.

Wine Pairings

The choice of wine can enhance the flavors of manicotti, complementing the richness of the sauce and the subtle flavors of the filling.

• Red Wines:A light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Barbera, pairs well with manicotti, bringing out the savory flavors of the dish.
• White Wines:A crisp, dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy sauce and highlights the delicate flavors of the filling.

Final Thoughts

As you master the art of manicotti with meat, you will not only impress your dinner guests but also create lasting memories around the table. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful filling, and rich sauce makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Experiment with different variations, such as using various meats or cheeses, to find your signature manicotti recipe. And remember, the key to a successful manicotti lies in the attention to detail and the love you pour into each step of the process.