Crab-Stuffed Manicotti

Introduction

There’s something absolutely heartwarming about a big dish of stuffed pasta. The warm, tender tubes of manicotti, perfectly filled with rich and creamy crab stuffing, are the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re giving yourself a big, comforting hug. This Crab-Stuffed Manicotti recipe is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite, with the sweet, delicate flavor of crab perfectly paired with the creamy ricotta filling. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to cooking!

I first stumbled upon the idea of stuffed manicotti at a family gathering, and it was love at first bite. We were at a big holiday dinner, and my aunt had prepared a beautiful tray of manicotti filled with all sorts of delicious things. But when I tasted the version stuffed with crab, I knew it was something special. The combination of the fresh, flaky crab and the cheesy, herby filling was unlike anything I’d had before. It quickly became a family favorite, and now I can’t imagine making manicotti any other way.

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, a special occasion, or even a cozy date night at home. It’s elegant yet comforting, and the balance of flavors will make it hard to stop at just one serving. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this dish will steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Crab-Stuffed Manicotti

This Crab-Stuffed Manicotti is a must-try for so many reasons, and I’m going to walk you through all of them so you can see exactly why it’s so special.

• Easy to make: Even though it sounds fancy, this dish is surprisingly simple to pull together. With a few basic ingredients and some prep time, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. It’s a perfect dish for impressing guests without feeling like you’re spending hours in the kitchen.
• Seafood twist: Crab adds such a luxurious touch to this recipe. It’s sweet, delicate, and pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta filling. Plus, it’s a great way to elevate a classic pasta dish and introduce a new flavor to your pasta repertoire.
• Family-friendly: Even if you’re not a fan of seafood, don’t worry! The crab in this dish is mild and complements the other flavors so well that it won’t overwhelm anyone at the table. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to seafood in a way that’s approachable and delicious.
• Packed with flavor: The crab, ricotta, and herbs come together to create a creamy, flavorful stuffing that perfectly fills the manicotti shells. Then, it’s all smothered in marinara sauce and baked to perfection, giving you the ultimate comforting, cheesy bite. The best part? It’s all made in one dish, so clean-up is a breeze!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes (30 minutes prep + 1 hour baking)
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Nutritional Information

• Calories per serving: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g

Ingredients for Crab-Stuffed Manicotti

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crab-stuffed deliciousness:

• 12 manicotti shells (uncooked)
• 1 pound crab meat (fresh or canned, be sure to drain well if using canned)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

For this recipe, fresh crab meat will give you the best flavor, but canned crab meat works well too if fresh is unavailable. Make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture. The ricotta cheese adds a rich and creamy base to the stuffing, while the mozzarella and Parmesan bring that melt-in-your-mouth cheesiness we all crave.

Why These Ingredients Work

• Crab: Adds a sweet, delicate flavor that’s perfect for pairing with pasta and cheese. It’s the star of the dish and makes it extra special.
• Ricotta cheese: This soft, creamy cheese blends perfectly with the crab, creating a smooth, flavorful stuffing.
• Mozzarella: Melts beautifully and adds that classic stretchy, cheesy goodness.
• Marinara sauce: Provides a tangy contrast to the rich filling and keeps everything moist while baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process into simple steps to ensure you get perfect Crab-Stuffed Manicotti every time. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds!

1. Cook the Manicotti Shells

Start by boiling the manicotti shells according to the package instructions. You’ll want them to be al dente so they hold up while you stuff them. Be sure to stir them occasionally to prevent sticking. Once they’re cooked, drain them and set them aside to cool.

2. Make the Crab Filling

While the pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the stuffing. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix; you want the filling to stay fluffy and light, not dense.

3. Stuff the Manicotti Shells

Now it’s time for the fun part! Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the crab mixture. It’s best to do this slowly and gently to avoid tearing the shells. If you’re using a piping bag, it makes the job so much easier. Fill each shell generously, but be careful not to overstuff them.

4. Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and to add flavor. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in the dish in a single layer, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the top with extra shredded mozzarella and a bit more Parmesan.

5. Bake the Manicotti

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

6. Let it Rest

Once the manicotti is done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut into.

How to Serve Crab-Stuffed Manicotti

This dish is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ways to take it to the next level:

• Serve with garlic bread: A crispy, buttery loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that extra marinara sauce.
• Pair with a side salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh, peppery contrast to the richness of the manicotti.
• Top with fresh basil: Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves to add a burst of color and extra flavor.

Additional Tips

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Crab-Stuffed Manicotti turns out perfectly:

1. Don’t overcook the shells: Manicotti shells can get too soft if overcooked, so keep an eye on them and cook them just until al dente.
2. Drain the crab well: Whether you’re using fresh or canned crab, make sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid sogginess in your filling.
3. Use a piping bag for easy stuffing: A piping bag makes stuffing the manicotti shells a breeze, and it prevents the filling from spilling out.
4. Top with extra cheese: Don’t be shy with the cheese—more mozzarella on top makes everything so much better.
5. Let it rest before serving: This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the crab for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious veggie version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free manicotti shells if you have dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for some heat.
• Different Cheese: Try using goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangy twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze the dish, assemble the manicotti (but don’t bake it) and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 375°F for 1 hour, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen crab meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen crab meat! Just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before using it in the recipe. Fresh crab will give the best flavor, but frozen crab works just as well when properly prepared.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Crab-Stuffed Manicotti ahead of time! You can stuff the manicotti shells and assemble the dish in the baking dish, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.

3. How do I prevent the manicotti shells from breaking while stuffing?

To avoid breaking the shells, make sure they are al dente when you cook them—not overcooked. Let them cool completely before stuffing, and be gentle when filling them. If you’re having trouble stuffing them, you can use a piping bag, which makes the process much easier and helps keep the shells intact.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of manicotti?

If you can’t find manicotti shells, you can substitute with large pasta shells, such as jumbo shells, which also work great for stuffing. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.

5. What kind of marinara sauce should I use?

You can use any marinara sauce you prefer—store-bought or homemade. If you’re using store-bought, I recommend choosing one with a simple ingredient list and a nice, rich flavor. For an extra burst of flavor, you could also make your own marinara sauce from scratch!

Print

Conclusion

Crab-Stuffed Manicotti is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration with every bite. It combines the comfort of classic Italian pasta with the elegance of seafood, creating a meal that’s both indulgent and comforting. The creamy, cheesy crab filling and the tangy marinara sauce make for the perfect harmony of flavors, while the easy prep and assembly ensure this dish is a winner no matter the occasion.

Whether you’re making it for a special dinner with loved ones, hosting a dinner party, or just craving something new and exciting for your weekly meal rotation, Crab-Stuffed Manicotti is guaranteed to impress. Plus, the fact that it can be made ahead or frozen for later makes it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you want to have a ready-made gourmet meal waiting in the freezer.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity, yet it looks and tastes like something you’d find at a fancy restaurant. So, next time you’re in the mood for something hearty, flavorful, and just a little bit fancy, try this Crab-Stuffed Manicotti—your taste buds will thank you!