Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti
Creamy cheese-stuffed manicotti baked in rich tomato sauce, ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a comforting blend of cheeses and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicotti for 10 minutes; drain.
- Cool in a single layer on waxed paper.
- Combine all remaining ingredients, except sauce.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into the cooled manicotti.
- Spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce.
- Cover the manicotti with the remaining sauce.
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To keep the manicotti from tearing, be gentle when filling them with the cheese mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or a vegan alternative. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the flavor. For a variation, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese filling. This recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese-stuffed manicotti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light Caesar salad or roasted vegetables would complement the dish nicely. For a fun twist, pair it with the Italian Vegetable Pizza Squares for a delightful Italian-themed dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a touch of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheese-stuffed manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Stuffed Manicotti contains roughly 296 calories, with 26g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1537mg per serving (67% 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 freeze cheese-stuffed manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze the manicotti before baking. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, you can cook it from frozen, but increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes at 375°F.
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).