If you love creamy, cheesy, and comforting Italian dishes, then this Cheese Manicotti is for you! Tender pasta shells are stuffed with a rich ricotta and mozzarella filling, covered in savory marinara sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the manicotti 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (they will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Transfer the cheese mixture to a large piping bag or zip-top bag. Cut the tip and carefully pipe the filling into each manicotti shell. Alternatively, use a spoon to stuff the shells gently.
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Let the manicotti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness. Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal!