Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Manicotti Bake: A Comfort Food Classic

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed dinner that feeds the whole family, Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Manicotti Bake is the dish to try. This Italian-inspired recipe features tender pasta tubes stuffed with a savory beef and cheese filling, then baked in rich marinara sauce under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a show-stopper for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or Sunday gatherings.

Below is a step-by-step guide to making this indulgent baked pasta dish from scratch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 manicotti pasta shells
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Gently add the manicotti shells and cook until just al dente (slightly firm, since they will finish cooking in the oven).
Drain and place on a tray lined with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.