Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe is absolutely delicious. This classic Italian dish features tender pasta tubes.

They’re filled with creamy cheese mixture. The Barefoot Contessa makes it simple and elegant. You’ll love how easy this recipe is.

It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara is heavenly.

This Ina Garten stuffed manicotti recipe will become your favorite. It tastes like restaurant quality at home.

Even beginners can master this comforting dish. Let me show you how to make it perfectly.

When I First Discovered Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti

I discovered this recipe five years ago. My sister made it for Sunday dinner. The first bite changed everything for me. The creamy filling melted in my mouth.

The pasta was perfectly tender and flavorful. I asked her for the recipe immediately. She told me it was Ina Garten’s version.

I’ve been making it ever since then. Now it’s my go-to comfort food dish. My family requests it almost every week.

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti

Equipment List

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon
  • Aluminum foil
  • Colander

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti

Here are the ingredients for Ina Garten stuffed manicotti:

  • 12 manicotti pasta tubes
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Guide

  • Boil water in a large pot.
  • Add salt to the boiling water.
  • Cook manicotti according to package directions.
  • Usually takes about 8 minutes total.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • This stops them from cooking more.
  • Lay them flat on a towel.
  • Mix ricotta in a large bowl.
  • Add 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir in the beaten egg gently.
  • Add parsley, salt, and pepper now.
  • Mix everything until well combined smoothly.
  • The filling should be creamy and thick.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F now.
  • Spread 1 cup marinara in baking dish.
  • Use a spoon to fill each tube.
  • Pack the filling in carefully but firmly.
  • Place stuffed manicotti in the dish side-by-side.
  • They should fit snugly together nicely.
  • Pour remaining marinara over the manicotti evenly.
  • Make sure all pasta is covered completely.
  • Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top generously.
  • Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Bake covered for 25 minutes first.
  • Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes.
  • Cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let it rest 5 minutes before serving.
  • This helps everything set up properly.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti

  • Don’t overcook the pasta tubes initially.
  • They continue cooking in the oven later.
  • Use whole milk ricotta for creamier filling.
  • Fresh mozzarella makes it even more delicious.
  • Add minced garlic to your marinara sauce.
  • Let manicotti rest before cutting into them.
  • You can prepare this dish ahead completely.
  • Refrigerate and bake when you’re ready.
  • Add fresh basil on top before serving.

FAQs About Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti

Q: Can I freeze stuffed manicotti before baking?

A: Yes, freeze unbaked manicotti for three months easily. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking completely.

Q: What cheese works best for this recipe?

A: Whole milk ricotta creates the creamiest filling possible. Fresh mozzarella adds amazing flavor and texture too.

Q: How do I prevent manicotti from breaking?

A: Cook pasta just until barely tender always. Handle them very gently when filling each one.

Q: Can I use different pasta shapes instead?

A: Jumbo shells work great as a substitute option. Large pasta tubes also work perfectly for stuffing.

Q: How long does leftover manicotti last?

A: Store covered in refrigerator for four days maximum. Reheat in oven until heated through completely.

Final Thoughts

This Ina Garten stuffed manicotti recipe is truly special. It brings comfort and joy to every meal. The creamy cheese filling is absolutely irresistible always.

Your family will ask for seconds guaranteed. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners too. Try this recipe and taste the magic yourself.

You’ll understand why it’s so beloved everywhere. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious manicotti tonight!

More Amazing Recipes

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe

Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe is absolutely delicious. This classic Italian dish features tender pasta tubes.
Course Main Dish

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon
  • Aluminum foil
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • 12 manicotti pasta tubes
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic minced

Instructions
 

  • Boil water in a large pot.
  • Add salt to the boiling water.
  • Cook manicotti according to package directions.
  • Usually takes about 8 minutes total.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • This stops them from cooking more.
  • Lay them flat on a towel.
  • Mix ricotta in a large bowl.
  • Add 1 cup mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir in the beaten egg gently.
  • Add parsley, salt, and pepper now.
  • Mix everything until well combined smoothly.
  • The filling should be creamy and thick.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F now.
  • Spread 1 cup marinara in baking dish.
  • Use a spoon to fill each tube.
  • Pack the filling in carefully but firmly.
  • Place stuffed manicotti in the dish side-by-side.
  • They should fit snugly together nicely.
  • Pour remaining marinara over the manicotti evenly.
  • Make sure all pasta is covered completely.
  • Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top generously.
  • Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Bake covered for 25 minutes first.
  • Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes.
  • Cheese should be bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let it rest 5 minutes before serving.
  • This helps everything set up properly.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta tubes initially.
  • They continue cooking in the oven later.
  • Use whole milk ricotta for creamier filling.
  • Fresh mozzarella makes it even more delicious.
  • Add minced garlic to your marinara sauce.
  • Let manicotti rest before cutting into them.
  • You can prepare this dish ahead completely.
  • Refrigerate and bake when you’re ready.
  • Add fresh basil on top before serving.
Keyword Ina Garten Stuffed Manicotti Recipe

My name is Tasha Velez. I love food and traveling! I'm lucky to be married to the man of my dreams. We have a sweet little girl who makes everyone smile!