Description
Cheese Manicotti with Lasagna Noodles is a creative twist on classic Italian comfort food. Instead of traditional manicotti shells, lasagna noodles are used to create a hearty, stuffed pasta that’s filled with a rich mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, seasoned to perfection with herbs like basil and oregano. The pasta is then rolled up and nestled in a savory marinara sauce, creating a perfect marriage of cheesy goodness and tangy tomato flavor. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is a comforting, crowd-pleasing alternative to regular manicotti. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, Cheese Manicotti with Lasagna Noodles is sure to satisfy and impress with its delicious layers and satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles: These will be used in place of traditional manicotti tubes. Choose standard lasagna noodles, not no-boil, for the best texture and ease of rolling.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: The classic creamy cheese filling for this dish. Full-fat ricotta works best for a rich flavor, but you can opt for part-skim if you prefer.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, melty texture to the filling and on top of the pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that sharp, nutty flavor that brings depth to the cheese mixture.
- 1 egg: Helps bind the filling together and gives it structure.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: A quintessential herb for Italian pasta dishes, giving the filling a touch of flavor and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a bit of extra savory depth in the filling.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce, or make your own if you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For greasing the baking dish and sautéing any veggies (if you choose to add them).
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and a fresh flavor to the finished dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the filling and the sauce.
Instructions
STEP 1: COOK THE LASAGNA NOODLES
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions, usually for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together. Once the noodles are cooked, drain and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking. Set them aside while you prepare the filling and sauce.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE CHEESE FILLING
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and egg. Stir in the oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well-combined into a thick, creamy filling. If you’d like to add spinach or other veggies, this is the time to incorporate them into the filling. Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers would work wonderfully in this dish. Once your filling is ready, set it aside.
STEP 3: PREPARE THE SAUCE
In a saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add a pinch of salt, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of dried herbs if desired. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes while you prepare the lasagna noodles and filling. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can also add a little extra garlic or a splash of cream for a creamy marinara version.
STEP 4: ASSEMBLE THE DISH
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take one lasagna noodle at a time and place it flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling onto the center of the noodle. Carefully roll the noodle up around the filling, like you would with a traditional lasagna. Place the rolled-up noodle seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Continue rolling the remaining noodles with the cheese filling, arranging them side by side in the baking dish. Once all the noodles are in the dish, pour the marinara sauce over the top, spreading it evenly to cover all the pasta rolls. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top for a cheesy, melty finish.
STEP 5: BAKE
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the manicotti at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
STEP 6: REST AND SERVE
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 23g