Experience the rich, robust flavors of Italy right at home with this Savory Sausage Manicotti Delight recipe. This crowd-pleasing dish features tender manicotti pasta stuffed with a hearty blend of Italian sausage, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, all smothered in a vibrant marinara sauce and topped with even more cheese.
Photos of Sausage Manicotti Recipe
The key components of this recipe are the Italian sausage and the manicotti shells. Italian sausage, which is generally found in the meat section of most supermarkets, is known for its distinctive fennel flavor. Manicotti, a large, tube-shaped pasta, is typically located in the pasta aisle. It's not as commonly used as spaghetti or penne, so be sure to look for it specifically.
Ingredients for Savory Sausage Manicotti Delight
Olive oil: A heart-healthy oil that's perfect for sautéing the sausage and onions.
Italian sausage: A flavorful meat that will be the hearty filling for the manicotti.
Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
Garlic: Gives a pungent kick to the sausage filling.
Ricotta cheese: A rich, creamy cheese that makes the filling extra indulgent.
Egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together.
Mozzarella cheese: A stretchy, mild cheese that's melted on top for a gooey finish.
Parmesan cheese: A hard, salty cheese that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an Italian flair.
Marinara sauce: A tangy tomato-based sauce that envelops the manicotti.
Manicotti shells: Large pasta tubes perfect for stuffing.
Parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous garnish.
One reader, Glory Colby says:
This savory sausage manicotti delight is a game-changer! The combination of Italian sausage, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a burst of flavors that's simply irresistible. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful culinary experience.
Key Techniques for Crafting Savory Sausage Manicotti
How to prepare the filling: Cook the Italian sausage, onions, and garlic until browned and cooked through. Then, combine the cooked meat mixture with ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
How to assemble the manicotti: Fill each manicotti with the meat and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag, then arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the top before baking.
How to cook the manicotti: Boil the manicotti in salted water for 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions state, then drain and cool slightly.
How to bake the manicotti: Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and browned.
How to serve: Sprinkle with parsley before serving.
How To Make Sausage Manicotti
Enjoy a meaty pasta dish with this sausage manicotti recipe! This dish is filled with sausage and three cheeses, all baked in marinara sauce, for a filling meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Filling:
- 2tspolive oil
- 1lbItalian sausage,hot or mild, casings removed
- ½cuponion,finely chopped
- 2tspgarlic,minced
- 15ozricotta cheese
- 1egg
- 1cupmozzarella cheese,shredded
- ½cupparmesan cheese,finely grated
- ¾tspdried Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper,to taste
For Assembly:
- 2½cupsmarinara sauce
- 12manicotti shells
- 1½cupsmozzarella cheese
- 2tbspparsley,chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
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Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the sausage in the pan, then cook for 3 to 4 minutes, breaking up the meat into small pieces.
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Add the onions to the pan. Cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes or until the onions are softened and the sausage is browned and cooked through.
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Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat.
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Place the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Stir to combine.
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Add the meat mixture to the ricotta mixture. Stir until well mixed.
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Cook the manicotti in salted boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions state. Drain and cool slightly.
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Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce over the bottom of the pan.
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Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each manicotti with the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the manicotti in a single layer in the pan. Pour the rest of the sauce over the top.
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Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
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Uncover, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, then bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned.
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Sprinkle with parsley, then serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 990.67kcal
- Fat: 67.16g
- Saturated Fat: 34.02g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.30g
- Carbohydrates: 41.69g
- Fiber: 3.72g
- Sugar: 8.95g
- Protein: 53.80g
- Cholesterol: 227.26mg
- Sodium: 2026.33mg
- Calcium: 985.09mg
- Potassium: 842.62mg
- Iron: 3.31mg
- Vitamin A: 377.70µg
- Vitamin C: 6.74mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Sausage Manicotti
When filling the manicotti shells with the meat and cheese mixture, using a piping bag can make the process much easier and less messy. If you don't have a piping bag, you can make one by cutting a small corner off of a zip-top plastic bag. Just be sure to let the meat mixture cool slightly before adding it to the bag to avoid melting the plastic. This method allows for even distribution of the filling and ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delightful Dish
Prep ahead: Make the filling and sauce a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a piping bag: Fill the manicotti shells with the cheese and sausage mixture using a piping bag to save time and create uniform portions.
Freeze for later: Make a double batch and freeze the extra manicotti for a quick and easy meal another day.
Cook the manicotti: Cook the manicotti shells until they are just slightly underdone to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
Bake in batches: If making a large quantity, consider baking the manicotti in batches to ensure even cooking and to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage Manicotti Recipe
Italian sausage - Substitute with plant-based sausage: Plant-based sausages offer a similar savory and spiced flavor profile, making them a suitable substitute for Italian sausage in this recipe. They also provide a meaty texture that complements the other ingredients well.
Ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative to ricotta cheese while still providing a creamy texture and mild flavor. It works well as a filling for manicotti and blends seamlessly with other ingredients.
Mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese offers a slightly sharper and more distinct flavor compared to mozzarella, adding a delicious depth to the dish. It melts beautifully and complements the other flavors in the recipe.
Marinara sauce - Substitute with arrabbiata sauce: Arrabbiata sauce, with its spicy kick from red pepper flakes, can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. It provides a delightful heat that enhances the overall savory profile of the manicotti.
Manicotti shells - Substitute with cannelloni tubes: Cannelloni tubes are a suitable alternative to manicotti shells, as they are both large pasta tubes that can be filled and baked. The difference is minimal, and cannelloni tubes can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
Parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil offers a slightly different herbaceous flavor that can elevate the dish with its aromatic and slightly sweet notes. It pairs well with the other ingredients and adds a refreshing touch to the overall flavor profile.
Presenting Your Savory Sausage Manicotti Masterpiece
Elevate the plating: When presenting the savory sausage manicotti delight, focus on creating an elegant and refined plating. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the manicotti as the star of the dish.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The vibrant green hues will complement the rich and savory flavors of the manicotti.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the manicotti to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive elements, and instead, let the manicotti take center stage.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish. A white or neutral-colored plate can provide a clean backdrop, allowing the colors of the manicotti and sauce to shine.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each manicotti shell and ensure that the filling is neatly and evenly distributed. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall presentation.
Add a touch of sophistication with a drizzle: Consider adding a delicate drizzle of balsamic reduction or olive oil to the plate for an added layer of flavor and a touch of culinary sophistication.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts to provide a textural contrast to the creamy filling of the manicotti, adding depth to the overall dining experience.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the manicotti in a visually appealing manner, focusing on symmetry and balance to create a harmonious presentation that is visually captivating.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Manicotti
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing and frying.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and cooking pasta or other large dishes.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing.
Baking dish: A rectangular or square dish used for baking and serving dishes like casseroles and pasta bakes.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and lifting.
Cooking spray: A sprayable oil used for greasing pans and preventing food from sticking.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe semi-solid foods by pressing them through a narrow opening at one end.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Your Savory Sausage Manicotti
Let the manicotti cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled manicotti in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or cover with foil and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
To freeze:
- Wrap the cooled manicotti tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped manicotti in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen manicotti:
- Thaw the manicotti in the refrigerator overnight.
- Remove the plastic wrap and place the manicotti in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen manicotti directly from the freezer by increasing the baking time to 45-60 minutes.
How To Reheat Leftover Manicotti
To reheat leftover savory sausage manicotti delight, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the manicotti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method ensures that the manicotti retains its moisture and the filling stays hot and gooey.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place a single serving of manicotti on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the manicotti is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pasta to become rubbery and the filling to dry out.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the manicotti in the oven until heated through, then remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil the manicotti for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your manicotti. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the manicotti in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted. This method can help restore some of the crispiness to the pasta edges.
For a stovetop method, place the manicotti in a covered skillet or saucepan with a splash of water or marinara sauce. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the manicotti is heated through and the sauce is bubbling. This method can help prevent the pasta from drying out.
Interesting Trivia About Savory Sausage Manicotti Delight
The savory sausage manicotti delight is a delicious Italian-American dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella cheese. This dish is a perfect comfort food for a family dinner or a special occasion. It's a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a savory twist.
Is Making Manicotti at Home Cost-Effective?
This savory sausage manicotti delight recipe is fairly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish yields 12 servings, making it suitable for a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire meal is around $20, making it an affordable option for a satisfying and flavorful dinner. Overall Verdict: 8/10
Is This Savory Sausage Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The savory sausage manicotti delight recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The use of Italian sausage, which is typically high in saturated fat and sodium
- The generous amounts of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, contributing to a high saturated fat content
- The marinara sauce, depending on the brand or recipe, may contain added sugars and sodium
- The manicotti shells are made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and essential nutrients
However, this recipe can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for lean Italian chicken or turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use part-skim ricotta cheese and reduce the amount of mozzarella and parmesan to lower the overall fat and calorie content
- Choose a low-sodium, sugar-free marinara sauce or prepare your own using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices
- Incorporate more vegetables into the filling, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the manicotti with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals
- Practice portion control by limiting yourself to one or two manicotti shells per serving
Editor's Opinion on This Savory Sausage Manicotti Recipe
This savory sausage manicotti delight is a delightful and comforting dish that is sure to impress. The combination of flavorful Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying filling for the manicotti shells. The addition of marinara sauce adds a burst of tangy sweetness, while the sprinkle of parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. With its robust flavors and comforting textures, this dish is a winner for any occasion.
Enhance Your Sausage Manicotti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Manicotti Meal
Why trust this Sausage Manicotti Recipe:
This recipe is a guaranteed hit for any Italian cuisine lover. The combination of savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce creates a mouthwatering dish. The use of mozzarella and parmesan cheese adds a rich and indulgent touch. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof preparation, and the final touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. Trust in the classic flavors and simple techniques of this recipe for a satisfying and delicious dinner experience.
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