Shrimp Manicotti

Try different fillings, such as ricotta cheese, spinach, or other seafood for variety.

Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese on top before serving for added flavor and presentation.

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a simple yet complete meal.

Modify the spice levels to suit your taste; add more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer milder flavors.

Use a disposable piping bag or a sandwich bag with the corner snipped off to easily stuff the manicotti without making a mess.

For extra flavor, saute the vegetables with minced garlic before adding them to the shrimp mixture.

What is manicotti?

Manicotti is a type of Italian pasta that consists of large tubular shells, typically stuffed with filling and baked in a sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of manicotti?

While manicotti is traditional, you can substitute with cannelloni or even large shells. Just make sure the filling is suitable for the chosen pasta shape.

What are the best types of shrimp to use for this recipe?

Use peeled, deveined shrimp, preferably medium to large in size (26/30 to 31/35 count). Fresh shrimp will offer the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can work well (thaw completely and pat dry before using).

Can I make this dish with raw shrimp?

You can use raw shrimp; just cook them in the skillet for a few minutes before combining them with the other filling ingredients to make sure they are fully cooked.

What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?

You can use marinara sauce, a homemade bechamel, or a vegan substitute made from cashews blended with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and broth for a creamy consistency.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can reduce the butter and replace half of the heavy Alfredo sauce with a lighter version made from pureed cauliflower or low-fat milk. Additionally, add more vegetables to the filling.

How do I make sure the manicotti doesn't break while cooking?

Avoid overcooking the manicotti shells. Follow package instructions closely and cook just until al dente so they have some firmness left for filling. Also, don't overfill them.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can make the filling and stuff the manicotti shells in advance, then cover and refrigerate until you are ready to bake. This also allows the flavors to meld.

How can I tell when the manicotti is done baking?

The manicotti is ready when the sauce is bubbling and the tops are slightly golden. The cheese will also be melty.

Can I freeze the stuffed manicotti before baking?

You can freeze the stuffed manicotti in a covered, freezer-safe dish. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the total cooking time.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

For a similar flavor, consider Pecorino Romano cheese or a vegan Parmesan made of blended nuts and nutritional yeast.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warm throughout (about 20-25 minutes), or microwave individual portions on 50% power.

Oven: For baking the stuffed manicotti shells at 300 degrees F until heated through.

9x13-inch Baking Dish: For placing the stuffed manicotti shells. Greasing the dish helps prevent sticking.

Large Pot: For bringing water to a boil to cook the manicotti shells. The pot should be large enough to accommodate the shells as they cook.

Large Skillet: For sauteing the onions, celery, and bell pepper in butter until soft.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients such as onions, bell pepper, salt, pepper, and thyme.

Mixing Bowl: For combining the coarsely chopped shrimp with the sauteed vegetables and other filling ingredients. A large bowl allows for easy mixing with less mess.

Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the vegetables in the skillet and mixing the ingredients in the bowl. This tool provides control and ensures even incorporation of ingredients.

Chopping Knife: For finely chopping the onions, celery, bell pepper, green onions, and fresh parsley.

Cutting Board: To provide a stable surface for chopping vegetables and shrimp.

Aluminum Foil: For covering the baking dish during the initial baking phase to retain moisture, preventing the top from browning too quickly.

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to scoop up leftover Alfredo sauce.

Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the stuffed manicotti.

Grilled Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus sprinkled with lemon zest offers a light, earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the manicotti's richness.

Roasted Tomato Caprese: A side of roasted tomatoes with mozzarella adds a juicy, fresh element that pairs well with the savory shrimp filling.

Italian Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, and cheeses provides a variety of flavors and textures that set an elegant tone for the meal.

Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil as a garnish adds a fragrant, herbal lift that complements the shrimp and creamy sauce beautifully.

Wine Pairings
Sauvignon Blanc: This zesty white wine brings a refreshing acidity to cut through the creamy Alfredo sauce. Look for one with citrus and herbaceous notes, which will play nicely with the shrimp and veggies.

Pinot Grigio: A nice, crisp Pinot Grigio with light citrusy flavors and a hint of minerality can complement the shrimp without being overpowering. Go for something bright and refreshing.

Chardonnay: If you're in the mood for something a bit richer, a buttery Chardonnay can add a lovely creaminess to match the Alfredo. Seek one that has been oak-aged to bring out those vanilla and toasty notes.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Sangria: A dry white sangria infused with fruits like pineapple and lemon can bring a fun, fruity spark to your dish.

Pilsner: A crisp lager such as a Pilsner works well here, offering a clean and refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the dish. Look for something with just a hint of bitterness to balance everything out.

Gin and Tonic: The botanical notes of a gin and tonic can be a delightful pairing. Choose a gin with citrusy or herbaceous elements, and the tonic will add that fizzy, refreshing vibe.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Sparkling Lemonade: This fizzy drink can add a delightful zestiness that brightens the dish. Look for one with real lemon juice to provide a nice tang that plays off the creamy Alfredo.

Herbed Iced Tea: A chilled iced tea infused with herbs like mint or basil can be refreshing and subtle, complementing the flavors of the shrimp and veggies without clashing.

Apple Spritzer: An apple spritzer made with apple juice and a splash of soda water can provide a sweet, fruity flavor, which will balance the richness of the dish while keeping things light.