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Recipe dc75c64a6b

Italian Sausage Manicotti

A comforting and flavorful baked manicotti dish filled with savory chicken or turkey Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and topped with gooey mozzarella.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Manicotti Ingredients

  • 12 pieces manicotti shells The classic tube shapes that cradle the filling.
  • 1 pound chicken or turkey Italian sausage, casing removed For a lighter, savory profile.
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese Creamy and tangy; base for filling.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided One cup in the filling, one for the top.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds salty umami flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano For flavor enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil For added freshness.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for depth of flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for a little kick.
  • 4 cups marinara sauce Use a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste For seasoning.
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional) For presentation.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish with a light spray of olive oil.
  • Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the sausage and cheese mixture.

Assembly

  • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti on top.
  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Baking

  • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let cool for 5–7 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese. Adjust the marinara sauce before baking to avoid dryness. Let the dish rest before serving for clean slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6g
Keyword baked pasta, Comfort Food, Family Meal, manicotti, Sausage
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