Name: Golden Manicotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large manicotti pasta shells; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups marinara sauce, divided; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

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Golden Manicotti is a delightful and festive dish that brings the family together around the dinner table. This scrumptious recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta cheese, savory herbs, and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, Golden Manicotti is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this Golden Manicotti recipe is sure to impress. The layers of flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that warms the soul. With its elegant presentation and satisfying taste, this dish makes any occasion feel more special, turning a simple dinner into a memorable feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Golden Manicotti recipe is loved for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, it offers an impressive visual appeal with its vibrant colors and elegant presentation. The golden baked pasta shells filled with creamy cheese create a stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests.

Key Ingredients

Golden Manicotti Recipe: A Festive Family Feast ingredients

Creating the perfect Golden Manicotti requires specific ingredients that work harmoniously together. Below are the essential components you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

Manicotti Pasta: Large tubular pasta shells perfect for stuffing.
Ricotta Cheese: A creamy cheese that forms the base of the filling.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness to every bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides a nutty flavor and enhances the overall taste.
Eggs: Helps bind the filling together for easy stuffing.
Marinara Sauce: A flavorful sauce that covers the manicotti before baking.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley add freshness and aroma to the dish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the ingredients.
Cook the manicotti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
Create the filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
Stuff each manicotti shell: Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta mixture until filled but not overflowing.
Add sauce to baking dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange stuffed manicotti on top in a single layer.
Cover with remaining sauce: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle extra mozzarella on top if desired. Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake in preheated oven: Bake covered for 25 minutes; then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Expert Tips

Golden Manicotti Recipe: A Festive Family Feast

If you want your Golden Manicotti to be truly exceptional, here are some expert tips: Select high-quality ingredients. Fresh cheeses and homemade marinara can elevate your dish significantly. Don’t overcook your pasta; it should be firm enough to hold its shape when stuffed. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling for added nutrition and flavor depth. Finally, , as this helps set the filling for easier serving.

Presentation Ideas

Presents your Golden Manicotti in an inviting manner by garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving. For an extra touch of elegance, consider drizzling some balsamic glaze over individual servings or around the platter. Pairing it with a fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette can add color contrast while balancing out richness from the dish itself. Serve alongside crusty garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal that feels both festive and comforting!

FAQs

Can I make Golden Manicotti ahead of time?

You absolutely can! Prepare your manicotti up to baking point, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven as directed; this ensures even cooking throughout.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re looking for alternatives due to dietary restrictions or personal preference, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth or even tofu mixed with nutritional yeast as vegan options that mimic ricotta’s texture well while providing similar creaminess in your filling!

How do I store leftovers?

Your leftover Golden Manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place it back in an oven-safe dish covered loosely with foil at 350°F (175°C) until heated through; about 20-25 minutes should suffice depending on portion size!

Can I freeze Golden Manicotti?

This dish freezes well! Assemble but do not bake; instead cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing them into freezer bags or containers suitable for freezing up until three months later when ready enjoyed again! Just remember to thaw completely overnight in fridge prior reheating before serving!

What side dishes pair well with Golden Manicotti?

This delicious meal pairs wonderfully alongside simple sides like garlic bread or classic Caesar salad offering crunchiness & acidity contrast against rich flavors found within each bite! Roasted vegetables also complement nicely adding vibrant colors while boosting nutrition value!