Easy Beef and Cheese Manicotti Casserole

If you're a pasta lover, cheese enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a hearty and comforting meal, this Beef and Cheese Manicotti Casserole is the perfect dish for you. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients List

Before you start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup water

For the Pasta:

• 12 manicotti shells

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is tender and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Cook the Manicotti Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the manicotti shells and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
4. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti shells, making sure they are well-covered.
6. Add 1 cup of water to the baking dish by pouring it around the edges (this will help cook the pasta thoroughly).
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Don't Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the manicotti shells, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and quality marinara sauce can make a big difference in flavor.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final baking stage to ensure the cheese doesn't burn.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef and Cheese Manicotti Casserole pairs perfectly with:

• A crisp, green side salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
• A glass of red wine, such as Chianti

For presentation, garnish the casserole with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.

Conclusion and Call to Action

We hope this guide inspires you to create this comforting and delicious Beef and Cheese Manicotti Casserole. Give it a try, and don't forget to share your experience and photos with us! Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!