There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. When my cravings shift towards Italian cuisine, sausage manicotti is always at the top of my list. The enticing aroma of savory sausage mingling with creamy cottage cheese fills my kitchen and transforms any mundane day into a special occasion.
One day, while looking to shake things up in my dinner routine, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe. With its tender pasta shells generously stuffed with the robust flavors of Italian spices, this dish is not only easy to whip up but can also cater to diverse palates with a few simple tweaks. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a family-friendly meal that can be made ahead or a home chef seeking comfort food that doesn’t compromise on taste, this sausage manicotti is your ticket to satisfaction. Join me as we dive into the world of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in noodles—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why is this Sausage Manicotti a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of savory sausage and creamy cottage cheese offers a satisfying blend that your whole family will love.
Easy preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Just follow the simple steps to a delicious dinner!
Crowd-pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress your guests at gatherings or cozy family dinners, bringing smiles around the table.
Versatile options: Customize it with different cheeses or veggies to satisfy everyone’s tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Make-ahead magic: Assemble it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—perfect for busy days!
Get ready to delight in this creamy, cheesy goodness that embraces the essence of home-cooked comfort food!
Sausage Manicotti Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors with this classic dish!
For the Filling
- 1 pound uncooked bulk Italian sausage – Provides a rich, savory base; can be replaced with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter meal.
- 2 cups 4% cottage cheese – Adds creaminess and moisture, offering a lighter alternative to ricotta; feel free to swap in ricotta if you prefer!
For the Pasta
- 1 package (8 ounces) manicotti shells – The unique shape allows for ample filling; gluten-free pasta can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.
For the Sauce
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce – Complements the dish with its acidity and richness; consider making your own for an enhanced flavor experience.
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese – Provides that gooey, melty finish; substitute with provolone or your favorite cheese blend for a different taste.
Each of these ingredients contributes to the heavenly flavors of this Sausage Manicotti, making it a family favorite worth sharing!
How to Make Sausage Manicotti
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for ensuring your manicotti bakes evenly and thoroughly, creating that perfect cozy comfort food experience.
-
Combine in a large bowl the uncooked Italian sausage and cottage cheese until fully mixed. This mixture forms the delicious filling that gives your manicotti its rich flavor and creamy texture.
-
Stuff the manicotti shells using a piping bag or a snipped zip-top bag with the sausage mixture. This makes filling the pasta quick and easy! Ensure that shells are filled generously for maximum taste.
-
Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish, taking care to evenly space them. Cover with the marinara sauce, spreading it evenly over the shells, which adds moisture and flavor during baking.
-
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 55-60 minutes. This allows the sausage to cook through and the flavors to meld together beautifully; ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.
-
Uncover the dish, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 8-10 minutes. This will give you that delectable, golden melted cheese that draws everyone to the dinner table.
-
Cool the dish for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve while still being warm and inviting.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sausage Manicotti?
Comfort food deserves beautiful companions to elevate your dining experience!
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread that soaks up the marinara sauce, adding a crave-worthy texture to your meal.
- Arugula Salad: A refreshing arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, making every bite of manicotti even more enjoyable.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables offer a delightful earthy flavor to balance the richness of the pasta, perfect for a wholesome meal.
- Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the savory notes of the sausage and brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table.
- Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Adding these creamy, cheesy potatoes offers extra comfort and pairs beautifully with the sausage filling.
- Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat brings a sweet ending to your meal, leaving everyone pleased and satisfied.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers provide a light appetizer that keeps the Italian theme alive.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, zucchini noodles make an excellent side for a healthier touch, complementing the pasta dish perfectly.
- Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink refreshes the palate between bites, making it a great accompaniment to this hearty meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage Manicotti are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Simply prepare the stuffed shells, cover them with marinara sauce, and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure the dish is tightly covered with foil to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, bake straight from the fridge, increasing the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through properly. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade dinner ready with minimal effort and just as satisfying as if made fresh that day!
Sausage Manicotti Variations
Feel free to have fun customizing this dish and make it your own with these delightful twists!
-
Vegetable Boost: Swap half of the sausage for finely chopped spinach or zucchini for a lovely way to add veggies.
-
Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage for a fiery kick, or mix mild with hot sausage for a balanced flavor explosion.
-
Cheese Swap: Replace cottage cheese with creamy ricotta for a richer filling, or try goat cheese for a tangy surprise.
-
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling for an aromatic touch that elevates the overall taste.
-
Exotic Blend: Add some crumbled feta cheese into the mixture to bring a Mediterranean flair to your manicotti.
-
Protein Alternative: Substitute sausage with shredded rotisserie chicken or a plant-based sausage for a lighter, yet satisfying meal.
-
Noodle Twist: Use large shells instead of manicotti for a fun presentation without compromising on flavor.
-
Hearty Addition: Toss in some cooked mushrooms or bell peppers into the filling to enhance both texture and taste, making every bite even more delightful.
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Manicotti
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for the best texture.
Freezer: Assemble the manicotti without baking and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, and adjust cooking time as necessary.
Reheating: For previously baked manicotti, reheat in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
Wrapping: If freezing, wrap the unbaked dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your Sausage Manicotti stays delicious!
Expert Tips for Sausage Manicotti
-
Filling Technique: Use a piping bag or a snipped zip-top bag to neatly fill the manicotti shells, preventing mess and ensuring even distribution.
-
Cooking Safety: Always ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety. Pre-cook if desired to enhance flavor.
-
Frozen Shells: If using frozen manicotti, increase the baking temperature to 375°F (190°C) and extend the cooking time by 15-20 minutes for proper cooking.
-
Vegetable Boost: Sneak in nutrition by mixing finely chopped spinach or zucchini into the sausage filling—your family won’t even notice the extra veggies!
-
Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella blends for a unique taste profile in your Sausage Manicotti.
Sausage Manicotti Recipe FAQs
What type of sausage should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For an irresistible flavor, I recommend using bulk Italian sausage, either mild or hot depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully too, bringing that delightful flavor without as much fat.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can enjoy your leftovers for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for the best texture, ensuring that they’re heated through without drying out.
Can I freeze Sausage Manicotti before baking it?
Yes, you can! Assemble the manicotti without baking and wrap it tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and adjust your cooking time as necessary, ensuring it cooks all the way through for safety and flavor.
What should I do if my manicotti shells break while filling?
If that happens, don’t worry! Simply use the pieces to cover the bottom of your baking dish—just consider it a rustic touch! Alternatively, you can use tube pasta like cannelloni or jumbo shells as a substitute if you’re concerned about breakage.
Are there any dietary adjustments I should consider?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten allergies, you can easily find gluten-free manicotti shells. Additionally, if anyone has dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative for the filling and topping. Feel free to sneak in some finely chopped veggies, like spinach, for added nutrition, too!
How can I tell if my Sausage Manicotti is fully cooked?
To ensure it’s cooked through, check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top, and the marinara should be bubbling—a delightful sign that dinner is ready!
Hearty Sausage Manicotti: Comfort Food Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine in a large bowl the uncooked Italian sausage and cottage cheese until fully mixed.
- Stuff the manicotti shells using a piping bag or a snipped zip-top bag with the sausage mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish, and cover with marinara sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 55-60 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Uncover the dish, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 8-10 minutes.
- Cool the dish for 5 minutes before serving.