Quick and Easy Mexican Stuffed Manicotti
This Quick and Easy Mexican Stuffed Manicotti recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal. With a delicious filling of seasoned lean ground beef mixed with creamy refried beans, each manicotti shell is packed with goodness. Topped with zesty taco sauce and melted cheese, this dish combines the comforting essence of Italian manicotti with bold Mexican flavors. Serve with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and diced onions for a delightful presentation and added crunch.
4
Servings
300
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1/4 lb (uncooked)
refried beans
2 cups (prepared)
manicotti
6 (uncooked)
taco sauce
6 ounces (store-bought)
water
1 cup (for mixing)
cheddar cheese
1 cup (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the uncooked ground beef with the refried beans, ensuring they are well mixed and seasoned to your preference.
2
Stuff each uncooked manicotti shell with the beef and bean mixture using a spoon or a piping bag.
3
Place the filled manicotti shells in a medium casserole dish in a single layer.
4
In a separate bowl, mix the taco sauce with 1 cup of water until well blended. Pour the sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti.
5
Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap to trap steam during cooking.
6
Microwave on High for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the shells over using tongs.
7
Continue cooking on 70% power for an additional 17 minutes, venting the wrap slightly to prevent overflow.
8
After cooking, carefully remove the plastic wrap, being cautious of the hot steam. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
9
Return to the microwave for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10
Serve hot with optional toppings of sour cream, black olives, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and onions.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
30g
Carbs
15g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick and Easy Mexican Stuffed Manicotti?
It is a fusion dish that combines traditional Italian manicotti shells with a savory Mexican filling made of ground beef and refried beans, finished with taco sauce and melted cheese.
Do I need to cook the ground beef before stuffing the shells?
No, the recipe specifically calls for using uncooked lean ground beef mixed with refried beans, as the beef cooks thoroughly while the dish is in the microwave.
Should I boil the manicotti shells before stuffing them?
No, you should use uncooked manicotti shells. They will soften and cook perfectly during the steaming process in the microwave.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is portioned to make approximately 4 servings.
What kind of beans are used in the filling?
The recipe uses 2 cups of prepared refried beans mixed with the meat.
How do I stuff the dry manicotti shells?
You can use a small spoon or a piping bag to carefully fill the uncooked shells with the beef and bean mixture.
How much ground beef is required?
The recipe requires 1/4 pound of lean ground beef.
What kind of sauce is used for the topping?
A mixture of 6 ounces of taco sauce and 1 cup of water is poured over the shells to provide flavor and moisture for cooking.
What is the total microwave cooking time?
The total microwave cooking time is approximately 27 minutes plus a few extra minutes for melting the cheese.
Why must the dish be covered with plastic wrap?
The plastic wrap traps steam, which is essential to cook the raw meat and hydrate the dry pasta shells simultaneously.
When should the cheese be added?
Add the shredded cheddar cheese after the primary cooking cycles are complete, then return it to the microwave briefly to melt.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend depending on your preference.
What toppings are recommended?
Optional toppings include sour cream, black olives, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and onions.
How many manicotti shells are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 6 manicotti shells.
What power level is used for the second cooking stage?
The second cooking stage is performed at 70% power for 17 minutes.
Do I need to flip the shells during cooking?
Yes, you should carefully turn the shells over using tongs after the first 10 minutes of cooking.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How much fat is in each serving?
There is about 12.5g of fat per serving.
Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Yes, lean ground turkey can be used as a direct substitute for ground beef in this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on the taco sauce you choose; you can use mild, medium, or hot taco sauce to control the spiciness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with extra refried beans or a meat substitute, though cooking times may vary.
How do I prevent the sauce from overflowing?
Vent the plastic wrap slightly during the second 17-minute cooking period to allow some steam to escape.
Can I use enchilada sauce instead of taco sauce?
Yes, enchilada sauce is a great alternative that offers a similar Mexican flavor profile.
How much protein is in this dish?
There is approximately 15g of protein per serving.
Can I cook this in a regular oven?
While this is a microwave recipe, you could bake it in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, but you would need more liquid and a longer cooking time.
How do I store any leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How should I reheat the manicotti?
Reheat portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or until the center is hot.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, standard manicotti pasta contains gluten. You would need to use gluten-free shells for a gluten-free version.
Why is water added to the taco sauce?
The water thins the sauce and creates the steam needed to cook the raw pasta shells until they are tender.
Can I use homemade refried beans?
Yes, homemade refried beans work very well and can add extra flavor to the filling.