Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the manicotti shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, removing them 2 minutes before the recommended time. They should be al dente and slightly firm. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay out on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat into small pieces, until no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain any excess grease and let the mixture cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled meat mixture, ricotta, 1 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined into a thick, cohesive filling.
- Transfer the filling to a gallon-sized zip-top bag and snip one corner off. Pipe the filling into both ends of each manicotti shell until full. Alternatively, use a small spoon to fill the shells from both ends.
- Spread about 1 cup of the marinara across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara over the shells, ensuring every shell is fully covered. Scatter the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered at 325°F for 20 minutes or microwave on medium power with a damp paper towel over the top. Freezing: Assemble fully but do not bake. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to the covered bake time. Substitutions: Add 1 cup of chopped cooked spinach (squeezed dry) to the filling for extra nutrition. Use hot Italian sausage for a spicy version.
