Baked Manicotti
Creamy, cheesy baked manicotti filled with ricotta and mozzarella, topped with spaghetti sauce and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners or special occasions craving comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix well.
- Pour 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Fill each manicotti shell with about 3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture and arrange them in the dish over the sauce.
- Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or cooked sausage to the cheese mixture. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, but blend it for a smoother texture. Ensure the manicotti shells are al dente before filling them to prevent them from becoming too soft while baking. A sprinkle of Italian herbs can enhance the flavor further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked manicotti with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley can elevate the presentation. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Vegetable Pasta or Red Pasta Fagioli(Calabrese Style) for a delightful Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Manicotti contains roughly 692 calories, with 26g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1306mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute with a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option, adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the quantity to taste as it can be saltier than Parmesan.
Can I freeze baked manicotti?
Yes, baked manicotti can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).