Cheese Filled Manicotti
Cheese-filled manicotti offers tender pasta tubes packed with a creamy cheese mixture, baked in savory sauce for a comforting and crowd-pleasing Italian dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the manicotti pasta according to package directions; drain and cool.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, stir together ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into the cooled pasta tubes.
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking pan.
- Arrange the filled pasta in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta.
- Cover the pan with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or minced garlic to the cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese. For added texture, mix in some sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables. Make sure not to overcook the manicotti while boiling; al dente is best as they will continue to cook in the oven. You can also prepare a homemade Italian Manicotti for a more personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese-filled manicotti with a fresh side salad, such as Mushroom Toss Salad, for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh basil on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a glass of red wine. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving it alongside a classic Spaghetti Viennese.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth in the center.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Filled Manicotti contains roughly 306 calories, with 26g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), protein (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1840mg per serving (80% 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 assemble the manicotti in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. If freezing, wrap the dish securely and bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese blended until smooth or cream cheese for a richer flavor. Additionally, some recipes use a mix of mascarpone and Greek yogurt for a creamy filling. Adjust seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Absolutely! You can mix cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey into the cheese filling for added protein. Just be sure to drain any excess fat and season the meat before adding it to the cheese mixture. This creates a heartier dish that pairs well with the traditional spaghetti sauce.
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).