Italian Sausage and Cheese Manicotti 🇮🇹🧀

This hearty Italian classic is a perfect combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fragrant herbs, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. It's an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, this manicotti will transport your taste buds straight to Italy! Pair it with a side salad and a nice bottle of red wine for an authentic dining experience. 🍷🥗

Ingredients

For the filling

• 12 manicotti shells (dry)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Instructions

1. Cook the manicotti shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes until al dente. Drain and lay them out on a baking sheet to cool.

2. Prepare the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Combine the filling ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

🥄 For easier filling, transfer the mixture to a large resealable plastic bag, snip off one corner, and use it as a piping bag to fill the shells!

4. Fill the manicotti shells: Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese and sausage mixture. Place each filled shell into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

5. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce with the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Heat over low until warm, then pour the sauce evenly over the filled manicotti.

6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce and manicotti.

7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Let it rest: Allow the manicotti to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help keep the filling intact when you cut into it.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian twist. 🍄🥒
• Three-cheese: For a cheesier version, mix in some feta or Gouda into the filling for extra flavor complexity!
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free manicotti shells and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta filling for a hint of warmth and depth.

Enjoy this delightful Italian Sausage and Cheese Manicotti, and buon appetito! 🍽️✨