Mexican Manicotti Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Manicotti is a classic Italian dish known for its cheesy, saucy, and comforting qualities. But what if we take this beloved pasta and give it a vibrant Mexican twist?

Enter the Mexican Manicotti recipe—a fusion that combines the cheesy goodness of traditional manicotti with the bold, spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine. This dish is perfect for those who love to experiment with flavors and want a hearty meal that’s full of zest and warmth.

Imagine pasta tubes stuffed with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, black beans, and cheese, smothered in a rich enchilada sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, ideal for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite Mexican ingredients, making it a versatile and exciting dish to add to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Manicotti recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the best of two culinary worlds. It’s rich in flavor, hearty, and satisfying, making it perfect for a comforting dinner.

The combination of spicy enchilada sauce and creamy cheese filling creates a mouthwatering balance that keeps you coming back for more.

Another great thing about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily adjust the filling.

It’s also great for meal prep as it reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family dinners alike.

Ingredients

• 12 manicotti pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a little oil.
2. Cook the manicotti shells. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain carefully and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to avoid sticking.
3. Prepare the filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Brown the ground beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
5. Add the spices. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with spices.
6. Incorporate the beans and corn. Add the black beans and corn kernels to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Mix the cheese filling. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese. Add the cooled meat mixture and stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
8. Stuff the manicotti shells. Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Be generous but avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing.
9. Assemble the dish. Spread 1 cup of enchilada sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
10. Top with remaining sauce. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the manicotti, ensuring each shell is well coated.
11. Bake. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
12. Garnish and serve. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

“To avoid breaking the manicotti shells, handle them gently and avoid overcooking during boiling.”

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and double the black beans and corn or add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

If you like it spicy, add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix some chipotle chili powder into the enchilada sauce. You can also swap out the enchilada sauce for a red salsa verde for a tangier twist.

For a creamier texture, add a little sour cream or cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. You can also top the baked manicotti with sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for extra richness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Mexican Manicotti with a side of Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice to complement the flavors perfectly. A fresh green salad with avocado and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.

For an extra festive touch, offer some tangy pickled jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream on the side. Warm corn tortillas can also be served alongside to scoop up any leftover sauce.

Conclusion

This Mexican Manicotti recipe is a delightful fusion that brings bold, spicy flavors to a classic Italian comfort food. It’s a fantastic way to shake up your dinner routine with a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.

The combination of seasoned beef, beans, and cheeses wrapped in pasta and baked with enchilada sauce creates a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and delicious. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by experimenting with different fillings and toppings.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, it might just become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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