Spicy Manicotti

Creamy ricotta stuffed manicotti with mozzarella, Parmesan, basil and red pepper flakes baked in marinara for a spicy comfort pasta dish

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Special Equipment: 9x13 casserole dish

Ingredients

• 1 box manicotti, parboiled just to soften

• 1 egg

• 1 ½ half jars pasta sauce, divided

• 8 to 10 basil leaves, finely chopped, divided

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Salt and pepper

• Onion powder

• garlic powder

• 16 oz ricotta

• 1 lb mozzarella, freshly grated, divided

• ½ cup Parmesan, divided

• Red pepper flakes

Optional:

• Cooked Italian sausage or ground beef

• Spinach or sautéed mushrooms

• Extra cheeses like provolone or pepper jack

Directions

1. Cook manicotti until just softened. Rinse gently and set aside.

2. Mix ricotta, egg, garlic, seasonings, red pepper flakes, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1 quarter cup Parmesan.

3. Fill shells with the ricotta mixture.

4. Grease a 9 by 13 dish. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom. Place filled manicotti on top. Add optional cooked meat or veggies. Cover with remaining sauce and top with remainder of mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Cover and bake at 350 F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned.

6. Finish with fresh basil and serve.