Name: Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Manicotti pasta; Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled; Ricotta cheese; Mozzarella cheese, shredded; Parmesan cheese, grated; Egg; Marinara sauce; Garlic, minced; Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper

In the world of comfort food, Italian cuisine holds a special place with its emphasis on rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake is a delightful twist on a classic, combining the robust flavors of sausage with the creamy, cheesy goodness of manicotti. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends with family.

Manicotti, large pasta tubes typically stuffed with ricotta cheese and herbs, are a staple in many Italian dishes. In this recipe, we elevate the traditional manicotti by adding savory sausage and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection in a homemade tomato sauce. This dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that can bring a little piece of Italy to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Manicotti pasta shells (14 shells)
Italian sausage (1 lb, removed from casings)
Ricotta cheese (15 oz)
Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
Egg (1, beaten)
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Spinach (1 cup, chopped, optional)
Marinara sauce (2 cups)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare Manicotti Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, and minced garlic. If using, add the chopped spinach. Season with salt and pepper. Once the sausage has cooled, fold it into the cheese mixture.
Fill Manicotti Shells: Fill the uncooked manicotti shells with the sausage and cheese mixture. A piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off works well for this step. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese: Cover the manicotti with the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring all the pasta is coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Let the manicotti sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of Chianti or a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo complements the robust flavors of the dish perfectly.

Conclusion

The Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings the rich, comforting tastes of Italy right to your kitchen. With its straightforward preparation and delicious outcome, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, it’s bound to satisfy cravings for something warm, comforting, and thoroughly appetizing.