4 Cheese Manicotti Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

If you’re craving a comforting Italian dish that’s rich, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying, this 4 Cheese Manicotti recipe is your new go-to meal. Manicotti, those delightful pasta tubes stuffed with a luscious blend of cheeses, baked in a savory tomato sauce, bring warmth and joy to any dinner table.

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses creates a harmony of creamy and tangy flavors that melt perfectly in your mouth.

Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and guarantees smiles with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll appreciate how this timeless Italian classic comes together effortlessly to deliver maximum flavor and comfort.

So grab your apron and let’s dive into making a cheesy masterpiece that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This 4 cheese manicotti recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the cheese filling is incredibly creamy and flavorful, combining ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano for a rich, multi-dimensional taste.

The pasta is perfectly tender, and baking it in a homemade tomato sauce brings everything together with a beautiful, bubbly finish.

Another great reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding fresh herbs or spinach, or swap the tomato sauce for a creamy Alfredo for a different twist.

Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead recipe, ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Finally, this dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or garlic bread, making it a well-rounded, crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike.

Ingredients

• 12 manicotti pasta shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried basil)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if not buying pre-grated)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Slotted spoon or pasta tongs
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the manicotti shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain carefully and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside on a clean kitchen towel.
3. Prepare the cheese filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses. Add the egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is creamy.
4. Fill the manicotti shells. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will prevent the pasta from sticking and add moisture during baking.
6. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the shells, covering them completely.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.

Tips & Variations

For a twist, add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, try swapping marinara for Alfredo or a béchamel sauce for a decadent white manicotti.

To save time, use no-boil manicotti shells, but make sure to have extra sauce to fully cook the pasta during baking.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan marinara sauce. This recipe is versatile enough to please any dietary preference with minor tweaks.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve this indulgent 4 cheese manicotti alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness. We recommend a crisp Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a refreshing complement.

Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf are excellent for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce. For a lighter option, steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli work beautifully.

To round out your Italian feast, consider pairing with a simple dessert like a fruit sorbet or a classic tiramisu.

Conclusion

This 4 Cheese Manicotti recipe is a fantastic way to bring Italian comfort food to your dinner table with ease and style. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with a savory tomato sauce creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling or sauce to make it your own.

And if you love Italian flavors, be sure to check out our other delicious recipes like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for more hearty meal inspiration.

Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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