Manicotti Recipe

Preparation and Assembly

1. 1

   Make the Pasta

   In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center, add eggs, and mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.

2. 2

   Prepare the Filling

   In a bowl, combine ricotta, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and one egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until smooth.

3. 3

   Roll Out the Pasta

   Divide the rested dough into 4 pieces. Roll each piece into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin. Cut into rectangles (about 4x6 inches).

4. 4

   Stuff the Manicotti

   Place a heaping tablespoon of the ricotta mixture on one end of each pasta rectangle. Roll the pasta around the filling to form tubes. Place seam side down on a baking dish.

5. 5

   Prepare the Sauces

   Prepare meat sauce by browning meat (meatballs or Italian sausage) in a skillet. Once cooked, add marinara sauce and simmer. For Besciamella, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk, stirring until thickened.

6. 6

   Assemble and Bake

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, then place the stuffed manicotti on top. Pour the remaining meat sauce and Besciamella over the manicotti. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.

7. 7

   Bake

   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.