Description
This classic Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is a comforting Italian baked pasta dish featuring tender manicotti shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a perfect meal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta and Filling
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Assembly
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the manicotti pasta shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly so they can be handled.
- Sauté Spinach and Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add fresh spinach and sauté until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Stuff Manicotti Shells: Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag to avoid breaking the shells.
- Assemble Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the manicotti to rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add chopped fresh basil or a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor.
- Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Use part-skim ricotta and reduce the cheese topping to make the dish lighter.
- Consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the filling for additional texture and flavor.
- Serve with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
