String Cheese Manicotti
The ultimate comfort food, String Cheese Manicotti is a cheesy delight that will satisfy your cravings. With creamy string cheese and a rich spaghetti sauce, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight for a heartwarming meal!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 package manicotti shells (8 ounces)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (24 ounces)
- 12 pieces string cheese
- 1½ cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (6 ounces)
- 1 amount grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 1 amount basil chopped, optional
Instructions
- Cook manicotti according to package directions in salted water.
- While pasta is cooking, cook beef and onion over medium heat in a large skillet until meat is no longer pink; add garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Drain meat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce. Spread half of the meat sauce into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Drain manicotti. Stuff each shell with a piece of string cheese. You could even use 2 pieces of string cheese but we thought one was plenty once it melted.
- Arrange manicotti over meat sauce. Place over meat sauce; top with remaining sauce.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
- Uncover and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and garnish with basil if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked String Cheese Manicotti for a quick meal later. Just bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process.
- Variations: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Try mixing different cheeses like ricotta for a creamy filling.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish’s flavor!