Mannacote, commonly known as manicotti, is a rich and hearty Italian-American pasta dish loved for its creamy, cheesy filling and flavorful tomato sauce. The word “manicotti” comes from the Italian word manicotto, meaning “big sleeve,” which perfectly describes the large tubular pasta shells used in this dish. These shells are stuffed with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and sometimes meat, then baked until golden and bubbly.
This dish has become a staple in Italian-American households, often served during family gatherings, holidays, or Sunday dinners. While its origins are inspired by Italian cuisine, the American version has its own unique twist, focusing heavily on cheesy fillings rather than meat-based ones.
The Origin and Evolution of Mannacote
Traditional Italian cooking has many variations of stuffed pasta, such as cannelloni, but mannacote has evolved into its own iconic dish in the United States. Early Italian immigrants adapted this recipe using ingredients that were easily available, like ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Over time, the recipe became richer, with generous layers of cheese and sauce, making it a true comfort food.
Today, there are two popular styles of mannacote:
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Classic Pasta Tubes – The traditional method using large dried pasta shells.
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Crespelle Style – A softer variation using thin Italian crêpes instead of pasta tubes for a delicate texture.
Both versions are delicious, but the pasta tube style remains the most common.
Key Ingredients That Make Mannacote Special
1. Pasta Shells
The large, firm shells are the heart of this dish. They are sturdy enough to hold the creamy filling without breaking. Some people also use jumbo pasta shells or even lasagna sheets rolled up as a creative alternative.
2. The Filling
The filling is what makes mannacote irresistible. A traditional cheese filling includes:
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Ricotta cheese – Soft and creamy
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Mozzarella cheese – For that gooey, melty texture
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Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor
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Fresh herbs – Parsley and basil for a fresh taste
Some variations also include cooked Italian sausage or ground beef mixed with the cheese for a heartier, meatier version.
3. Tomato Sauce
A rich marinara or homemade tomato sauce is essential. It keeps the pasta moist, adds flavor, and brings everything together. Some cooks add garlic, onion, or a splash of red wine to deepen the flavor.
4. Toppings
A final sprinkle of mozzarella or parmesan on top creates that beautiful golden crust after baking.
How to Make Mannacote: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the manicotti shells until they are slightly firm (al dente). Overcooking can make them too soft and harder to fill.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, eggs, and chopped herbs in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Gently spoon or pipe the filling into each shell. Be careful not to overfill, or the shells might break.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish, place the stuffed shells on top, then cover them with more sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
Tips for the Perfect Mannacote
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Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
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Don’t overcook the pasta—slightly firm shells hold up better when baking.
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Make ahead of time—you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
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Experiment with fillings—spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables make excellent vegetarian options.
Serving Suggestions
Mannacote pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, also complements the rich flavors perfectly.
For special occasions, you can serve it alongside other Italian favorites like antipasto platters or roasted chicken.
Why People Love Mannacote
This dish combines everything people love about comfort food—warm pasta, creamy cheese, tangy sauce, and that irresistible baked cheese topping. It’s family-friendly, easy to customize, and perfect for gatherings.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try new variations, mannacote always delivers hearty flavors and a sense of tradition.