Ricotta-Filled Crepes Manicotti Recipe

This Ricotta-Filled Crepes Manicotti is a lighter, more delicate version of the traditional pasta-based manicotti, inspired by a classic Neapolitan family recipe. Using crepes as the base makes the dish both unique and delightfully tender.

Ingredients

For the Neapolitan Ragù:

Prepare 3 cups of Neapolitan Ragù (or use your favorite marinara sauce).

For the Crepes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup water
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil (for brushing the pan)

For the Filling:

• 2 pounds ricotta cheese (whole or part-skim)
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, chopped or shredded
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1️⃣ Prepare the Neapolitan Ragù

Cook the ragù (or use pre-made) and set aside.

Make the Crepe Batter

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, eggs, and salt until smooth.
2. Cover and refrigerate the batter for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Crepes

1. Heat a 6-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly brush with oil.
2. Pour 1/3 cup of batter into the skillet, lifting and rotating the pan to coat the bottom evenly with a thin layer of batter.
3. Cook for about 1 minute, until the edges begin to brown and pull away from the pan. Flip the crepe and cook for another 30 seconds until lightly browned.
4. Slide the cooked crepe onto a plate and repeat with the remaining batter. Stack the crepes on top of each other as you go.

Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined.

Assemble the Manicotti

Bake the Manicotti

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the manicotti are heated through.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with:

• A simple green salad
• Crusty Italian bread
• A glass of red wine (optional)

Tips for Success

• Crepe Technique: If your crepes are sticking, lightly oil the pan between batches.
• Cheese Blend: Substitute or mix in your favorite cheeses, such as fontina or asiago, for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the crepes and filling a day in advance. Assemble just before baking.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought crepes?

Yes, pre-made crepes can save time, though homemade ones add an authentic touch.

What other fillings can I use?

Try spinach and ricotta, or a meat-based filling for variety.

Can this dish be frozen?

Absolutely! Assemble the manicotti, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Conclusion

This Ricotta-Filled Crepes Manicotti is a light and elegant take on a classic Italian dish. The tender crepes, creamy filling, and flavorful ragù make this recipe a standout for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to special celebrations.