How to Stuff Manicotti

 

 

Cook manicotti shells so they are not quite done - about 5 - 7 minutes; you want them to hold their shape as you fill them and they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and cool in a single layer on a lightly greased sheet.

 

 

Make the filling for the manicotti and spoon the mixture into a large ziploc bag. Snip off a small bit of one of the bottom corners of the bag. Popular fillings for manicotti are Cheese, Cheese and Spinach (or Escarole), and Ground Meat Filling.

 

Place some Marinara Sauce in the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan. You can also use individual serving dishes that are oven proof.

Fill the partially cooked manicotti shells, one at a time, squeezing cheese mixture into both sides of each shell. Place manicotti on top of sauce in baking dish. Pour more sauce over manicotti. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Bake at 350 degrees until heated through and the sauce bubbles, about 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until the cheese on top becomes golden, about 15 minutes longer. Let stand for 10 minutes to let the cheese set.