Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Beef and Cheese Manicotti

Beef and Cheese Manicotti

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking

Description

This classic Italian Beef and Cheese Manicotti is packed with three cheeses, two meats, and rich marinara sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food! A deliciously satisfying homemade recipe for family dinners.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Pasta & Sauce:

  • 14 manicotti pasta shells (8 oz package)
  • 3 cups spaghetti marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter, cut into pieces

Filling:

  • 4 tsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 3 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)
  • 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Instructions

  • Cook the Meat Mixture:

    • In a skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tsp olive oil.
    • Add onion, garlic, ground beef, and ground pork. Season with salt and pepper.
    • Cook for about 5 minutes until browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • Cook the Manicotti:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Cook the manicotti for 6 minutes, then drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Let cool.
  • Prepare the Filling:

    • In a bowl, mix ricotta, 2 cups mozzarella, ยฝ cup Parmesan, parsley, and nutmeg.
    • Stir in the cooled meat mixture until well combined.
  • Assemble the Manicotti:

    • Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
    • Drizzle 2 tsp olive oil into a 13ร—9 baking dish. Spread 1 ยฝ cups marinara sauce over the bottom.
    • Fill each manicotti shell using a piping bag (or a Ziploc with the corner cut off) or carefully spoon in the filling.
    • Arrange the stuffed pasta in a single layer in the dish. Pour remaining sauce on top.
    • Sprinkle remaining 1 ยฝ cups mozzarella and ยฝ cup Parmesan cheese over the top. Evenly distribute butter pieces.
  • Bake:

    • Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
    • Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
  • Freezing Tip: Freeze assembled (unbaked) manicotti for up to 3 months, then bake from frozen at 375ยฐF for 45-50 minutes.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 stuffed manicotti
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg