If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, look no further than this 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta. This easy manicotti recipe is perfect for cozy Italian dinners and makes for a fantastic make-ahead family meal. Stuffed with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and Romano cheeses, every bite is a cheesy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s baked under a blanket of homemade tomato basil pasta sauce, making it an irresistible option for any occasion.
Imagine creamy cheese manicotti shells filled to the brim and bathed in a savory tomato basil sauce, bubbling warmly in the oven. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that can transform any simple gathering into a feast. Whether you’re entertaining guests during the holidays or simply enjoying a quiet family night, this stuffed pasta dish perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food recipes.
Comforting Appeal of 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta
This delightful dish is a true embodiment of comfort food recipes.
With the perfect blend of creamy cheeses, 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta offers a warm embrace in every bite.
Nestled in a vibrant tomato basil pasta sauce, this dish radiates a sense of home and togetherness, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
The enticing aroma of melted mozzarella wafting through the kitchen will surely entice everyone to come to the table.
Each serving promises a satisfying experience, as the cheese manicotti shells provide a rich contrast to the zesty sauce, creating a meal that is hard to resist.
An Easy Manicotti Recipe for Any Occasion
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it an easy manicotti recipe that even novice cooks can master.
With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have this Italian baked pasta ready to impress your guests or family.
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and Romano cheeses creates a filling that’s simply irresistible.
As you assemble the stuffed pasta shells, the excitement builds.
They are generously filled, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.
Once baked, the gooey, bubbling cheese on top adds to the dish’s allure, promising a delightful meal that everyone will cherish.
The Perfect Sauce: Tomato Basil Bliss
The success of this recipe lies not just in the cheese but in the accompanying tomato basil sauce.
Whether you opt for homemade or a quality store-bought sauce, ensuring it’s rich and flavorful is key.
The vibrant hues of the sauce contrast beautifully with the cheese-filled manicotti, creating a visually appealing plate.
This sauce serves as a flavorful backdrop, enhancing the overall taste experience.
It’s the zesty component that balances the creamy filling, making each forkful a delightful combination of flavors.
A Dish to Gather Around
Served on a rustic wooden table, this 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta invites family and friends to gather around and enjoy.
The communal aspect of sharing a meal is amplified when this hearty dish is presented.
The sight of bubbling cheese and fragrant basil leaves garnishing the plate sets the stage for memorable moments.
This meal is perfect for special occasions, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Regardless of the setting, it always feels like a celebration, connecting loved ones through the joy of sharing good food.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
Each serving of this scrumptious dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrition.
With about 450 calories per serving, it is a comforting choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
The combination of proteins from the cheeses and the fiber from the sauce ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Pair this pasta with a light salad or a crusty bread to complete the meal.
The simplicity of the side dishes allows the manicotti to shine while rounding out the dining experience.
Final Thoughts on Your Culinary Creation
Making 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta is not just about the food; it’s an experience that brings people together.
The ease of preparation, combined with the comforting flavors, makes this dish a staple in many households.
Whether you are cooking for a crowd or simply for yourself, this stuffed pasta shells recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Easy and Delicious 4 Cheese Manicotti Pasta
This Italian baked pasta is a crowd-pleaser, with each manicotti shell generously filled with a delightful mix of four cheeses. The balance of the creamy cheese filling and zesty tomato basil sauce creates a comforting dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
With a crispy topping and a gooey, cheesy interior, this manicotti recipe is sure to impress, turning any dinner into a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups homemade tomato basil sauce or store-bought
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 2 cups of mozzarella, parmesan, Romano cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture using a piping bag or spoon.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato basil sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in the dish, then cover with remaining tomato basil sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g