Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake Recipe

Name: Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 7 links cooked Italian chicken sausage, cut in half lengthwise; 8 ounces uncooked manicotti pasta shells; 1 (15-ounce) jar alfredo sauce; 8 mozzarella string cheese, pulled in half lengthwise; 1 (24-ounce) jar prepared marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Italian Sausage Stuffed Manicotti

Ingredients

7 links cooked Italian chicken sausage, cut in half lengthwise
8 ounces uncooked manicotti pasta shells
1 (15 ounce) jar prepared Alfredo sauce
8 sticks mozzarella string cheese, pulled in half lengthwise
1 (24 ounce) jar prepared marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish, or to taste (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Fill each uncooked manicotti shell with half a link of cooked sausage. Arrange the stuffed pasta shells in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Pour Alfredo sauce evenly over the pasta shells, making sure they are well covered.

Step 4: Place half a string cheese on top of each stuffed pasta shell, right between the pasta pieces.

Step 5: Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each piece is generously coated.

Step 6: Add 2/3 cup of water to the marinara sauce jar. Secure the lid and shake it well to get all the sauce remnants, then pour the water around the edges of the dish.

Step 7: Sprinkle the top of the dish with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the edges are golden and the sauce is bubbling. Remove the foil during the last 25 minutes to allow the top to brown.

Step 9: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to set before serving.

Step 10: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 8

Calories: 583
Total Fat: 41g (53% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 22g (112% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 145mg (48% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1629mg (71% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 23g (8% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (9% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 7g
Protein: 31g (62% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 5mg (6% Daily Value)
Calcium: 556mg (43% Daily Value)
Iron: 2mg (12% Daily Value)
Potassium: 571mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

This easy sausage and manicotti bake is made faster and easier using prepared Alfredo and marinara sauces, string cheese, and pre-cooked Italian sausage. It's everything you love about slow-cooked Italian comfort food, packed into a simple and delicious dish that requires minimal effort.

Origin of Manicotti

Manicotti, meaning "little sleeves" in Italian, is a traditional Italian-American pasta dish that has become a staple of family dinners. The dish originated in Southern Italy but evolved in the United States, where it became widely associated with comfort food. In its classic form, manicotti pasta tubes are filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. The easy sausage manicotti bake version combines savory sausage with cheese and a creamy sauce, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Regional Variations

In Italy, manicotti is not as ubiquitous as one might think; the dish is more common in Italian-American cuisine, especially in regions with large Italian immigrant populations like New York, New Jersey, and Chicago. The filling for the pasta can vary: while the American version often includes ricotta or mozzarella cheese and meats like sausage, in Italy, you might find manicotti stuffed with spinach, bchamel sauce, or other vegetables. In some regions, the pasta is served in a tomato-based sauce, while others prefer a creamy, Alfredo-style sauce like in this recipe.

What Sets It Apart

This easy sausage manicotti bake stands out from other manicotti dishes by using a combination of both Alfredo and marinara sauces, creating a rich and creamy base for the pasta. The use of cooked Italian sausage adds a savory, meaty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The convenience of using pre-cooked sausage and pre-made sauces makes this dish a time-saving version of the traditional Italian pasta bake.

Where It's Typically Served

Manicotti is a popular dish in many Italian-American households, often served during family gatherings, holiday dinners, and potlucks. It's commonly found on the menu at Italian restaurants across the United States. The dish is particularly popular during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter when families come together for large meals. Given its hearty nature, it is also a favorite in colder months, offering comfort and warmth with every bite.

Fun Facts

The word "manicotti" comes from the Italian word "manica," meaning "sleeve," referencing the large pasta tubes that resemble sleeves.
In Italy, manicotti is often referred to as "cannelloni," though the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably in different regions.
This dish was popularized in the United States by Italian immigrants who sought to recreate the flavors of their homeland with locally available ingredients.
Manicotti can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as ricotta, spinach, ground beef, or even seafood in some coastal areas of Italy.

Conclusion

The Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake is a simplified yet delicious variation of a classic Italian dish. Its unique combination of sauces, cheese, and sausage makes it a family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you are an Italian cuisine aficionado or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

FAQ about Easy Sausage Manicotti Bake Recipe

Yes, you can substitute Italian chicken sausage with other types of Italian sausage, such as pork sausage or turkey sausage. Just be sure to cook them according to the instructions if they're not pre-cooked.

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble everything and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake it as instructed, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes or until heated through.

Yes, you can use gluten-free manicotti shells or any gluten-free pasta that can hold the filling. Just be sure to check the cooking times, as they may differ slightly from regular pasta.

Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Absolutely! You can use homemade Alfredo or marinara sauce for a fresher taste. Just make sure to adjust the quantities as needed, and don't forget to add water to the marinara jar to get all the sauce out.

If the pasta shells are undercooked, you can add a little more water around the edges and bake the dish for an additional 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can precook the pasta shells for a few minutes before stuffing them.

Yes, you can omit the mozzarella string cheese. You can replace it with additional shredded mozzarella or even ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.

To add more heat, you can use spicy Italian sausage instead of regular sausage, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking. You can also mix in some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Yes, you can experiment with other types of cheese. Try using provolone, gouda, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well.

Comments

TwistyRibs7748

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

No it was good as is for me my dad god rest his soul was from Sicily and I cook for a few people so I have learned to cook for them not me so thank you all and god bless you and your families.

ChazW

02/28/2024 01:06:24 AM

Used hot Italian sausage, which was not pre-cooked, so had to cook that first. The sausage links were large enough that when cut in half was too much and still needed to be cut down some more. The shavings from this, I sprinkled over the stuffed manicotti before adding the alfredo. I finished the recipe as written and topped with the remaining three sausages cut into about 1/4" to 3/8" thick medallions.

Michael Saunders

02/25/2024 10:11:08 PM

If you will fast freeze the sausage, and then scald with hot water only long enough to soften the sausage's casing, you may then remove the sausage's casing while maintaining the sausage's shape, prior to inserting the sausage into the pasta. Unless, of course, you enjoy eating the casings.

klmoon

02/25/2024 10:39:52 PM

This was delicious. The only thing I did different was to use fresh Italian sausage (which is all I could find at my store) that I cooked before putting it into the shells. Other than that, followed the recipe as written. Definitely a huge hit with my hubby and will be made frequently, as it was super easy to throw together.

CARLinBOSTON

02/26/2024 02:39:56 AM

I would (haven't yet) make this with pork Italian sausage, poached. I would also add a little ricotta along with the string cheese.

Home Cook Jean

03/03/2024 11:41:24 PM

This was very good! I made it according to directions, except I added more string cheese because we love "mozzi". The sausage was a little tough, so next time I will crumble the sausage before inserting. Otherwise, a great dish!

GuynVA

04/07/2024 10:21:01 PM

Super easy to make and delicious! This is a once-every-two-month dish for me only because of all the cheese. I don't put much Alfredo sauce on it and I skip the mozzarella string cheese (too much!). But turns out great regardless.

Kelly Anderson

03/26/2024 12:04:14 AM

The taste worked but the recipe cooking instructions did not. The noodles were not done and quite leathery. I would increase the water and or use sauce that is already hot on the stove and increase cooking time if I make it again.

SereneSpud4032

05/22/2025 05:13:10 PM

So easy and delicious! Cooking did take longer to get softer pasta (30 minutes longer). I used HOT water to amp up the cook. NOTE…recipe says 2/3 cup of water…she says 3/4 cup water in video. I recommend 3/4!

Chris Gamelcy Rodriguez

07/21/2025 01:47:22 AM

Very good tasting wise, but I think it needs to cook longer... the noodles were almost done but the string cheese did not melt all the way, and the top could have been browner. All in all, it is a keeper!

Darryl And Robb Zurwell

05/03/2025 10:29:43 PM

Had to cut the sausage in half to get them to fit in the manicotti pasta. Didn't have Alfredo at the store so I used all garden pasta sauce instead of marinara. However everything came out amazing. The children ate it up and wanted more than I made. Will be making it again.

Joshua Noxon

07/11/2025 10:36:30 PM

This was a great meal for anyone to make... Super easy and really good.

jeff ison

08/12/2024 02:16:49 PM

Nice simple recipe packed with flavor!

Stephen Phillips

06/08/2024 10:05:47 PM

Bro, this recipe deserves an award.

gamma penny

03/18/2024 02:25:57 AM

Very good but should have cooked a bit longer than the hour. (Noodles were a bit undercooked ). Precooked Italian sausages. Used my large white casserole pan and was enough to feed all 7 of us.

SandyFig8820

03/14/2024 12:06:46 AM

A 5 star hit for me and my family. They said the blend of marinara sauce and the Alfredo sauce and Parmesan cheese blended beautifully. Will definitely make again.

Alexander Flores

03/12/2024 07:20:09 AM

I’ll definitely make this again.

Ted Debbie Hart

02/27/2024 03:13:49 AM

Turned out good except noodles did not get cooked all the way probably should’ve cooked about two hours instead of 1 hour great recipe we will have it again

tkw1130

02/26/2024 12:05:21 AM

I really liked this but my husband was not a fan of the chicken sausage. Super easy to make! I did not use string cheese but instead added ricotta cheese. Next time I will change the meat or fill with cheese

GentleBoard1752

02/25/2024 09:56:37 PM

My mom used to make her own manicotti noodles. Oh man!

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