Three Cheese Manicotti Recipe

If ever there was a dish designed to impress both friends and family, it has to be Three Cheese Manicotti. This classic Italian-American comfort food is all about long pasta tubes generously stuffed with a rich, creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, all nestled in tangy tomato sauce and baked until bubbling. The result? A crave-worthy, golden-topped casserole that turns any meal into a celebration. Whether you’re planning a special Sunday dinner or simply want to treat yourself, Three Cheese Manicotti is the answer every home cook should keep in their back pocket.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the best Three Cheese Manicotti, it’s all about choosing a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that unbeatable texture and taste, so here’s what you’ll need—and why they’re worth reaching for!

• Manicotti shells: These sturdy pasta tubes are perfect for filling and hold up beautifully in the oven.
• Ricotta cheese: The creamy base for the filling, adding luscious texture and rich, mild flavor.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty, gooey, and perfectly stretchy for that classic Italian feel.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Bold and nutty, this cheese adds a salty, savory punch and gorgeous golden color on top.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese filling so it stays creamy and doesn’t ooze out during baking.
• Fresh parsley: Brings brightness and a pop of color to the filling and garnish.
• Garlic: Essential for that rich, aromatic flavor every Italian dish craves.
• Salt and pepper: A simple way to bring out the best in your cheeses and sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Tangy and slightly sweet, it cradles the stuffed shells and keeps everything moist.
• Olive oil: A drizzle adds richness to the finished baked dish.

How to Make Three Cheese Manicotti

Step 1: Boil the Manicotti Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the manicotti shells carefully and cook just until they’re al dente—usually about 2–3 minutes less than package instructions. You want them firm enough to hold their shape when stuffed. Drain and cool the shells by laying them on a towel, making them easier to handle in the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Three Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses with the egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well-combined and creamy. This is your flavor-packed, velvety filling that will seriously upgrade every manicotti bite.

Step 3: Fill the Manicotti Shells

Spoon your cheese filling into a piping bag or a sturdy plastic zip bag, then snip off the tip. Carefully pipe the mixture into each manicotti shell, taking care to fill them end to end without overstuffing—this helps them bake up evenly and beautifully every time.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer on top, nestling them in as closely as you can. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta, making sure every piece gets a saucy blanket. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with crispy edges. Let it rest a few minutes before serving—hard as it may be to wait!

How to Serve Three Cheese Manicotti

Garnishes

For that final touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the Three Cheese Manicotti just before bringing it to the table. A dusting of extra parmesan or a swirl of good olive oil also adds a savory lift and makes the dish look extra inviting.

Side Dishes

Keep things classic by serving Three Cheese Manicotti alongside a crisp green salad and warm, crusty garlic bread. If you want to go all out, roast some seasonal vegetables or offer up a simple bowl of marinated olives for a full Italian-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual portions by using small ceramic dishes or mini cast iron skillets—these look gorgeous for dinner parties. Or, try arranging the manicotti tubes upright, standing in the sauce, for a fun twist that will get everyone talking. For family-style, bring the bubbling casserole dish right to the table for serving straight from the oven.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Three Cheese Manicotti leftover (and that’s a big if!), let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days—just as creamy and crave-worthy on day four as the first night!

Freezing

This dish is a freezer-friendly dream. Assemble the manicotti right up to the baking step, then tightly cover and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F, covered, for about 50–60 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to get that irresistible bubbly, cheesy crust.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or pop the whole casserole back in a 350°F oven until hot and melty, about 20–25 minutes. A splash of extra marinara sauce will help revive any leftovers and keep the manicotti moist and decadent.

FAQs

What’s the best way to fill manicotti shells without breaking them?

Using a piping bag or a sturdy plastic zip-top bag to gently pipe the filling is by far the easiest method. Work slowly, and if the shells tear a tiny bit, don’t stress—the sauce and cheese will cover any imperfections.

Can I use different cheeses in the filling?

Absolutely! While the classic Three Cheese Manicotti uses ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, you can experiment with fontina, provolone, or even a touch of creamy goat cheese for a twist.

Is it okay to use jarred marinara sauce?

Yes—don’t hesitate to grab your favorite high-quality jarred sauce if you’re short on time. Homemade is great when you have a lazy Sunday, but a good store-bought marinara works wonderfully with Three Cheese Manicotti.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or gluten-free?

The filling is already vegetarian, so just ensure your sauce doesn’t contain hidden meat products. For gluten-free, look for gluten-free manicotti shells or try substituting with gluten-free lasagna noodles rolled up with cheese filling.

How do I prevent the manicotti from sticking together after boiling?

Drain the shells and lay them in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel, gently rolling them so they don’t touch. A drizzle of olive oil helps keep them separate and easier to work with when filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about gathering around the table to share a bubbling pan of Three Cheese Manicotti. Every bite is melty, saucy, and loaded with flavor—totally worthy of weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Give this recipe a try and discover why it’s a staple in Italian kitchens everywhere!

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