Cheese Stuffing For Manicotti
Creamy cheese-stuffed manicotti baked to perfection, featuring a blend of mozzarella, cream cheese, and provolone, topped with Parmesan, ideal for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook a 14-ounce box of manicotti in boiling water for 8 minutes; drain and rinse in cold water.
- Prepare the cheese filling by combining mozzarella, cream cheese, and provolone cheeses.
- Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
- Pour milk over the shells.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your cheese stuffing, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute part of the cream cheese with ricotta cheese. For a unique twist, try adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. This recipe is versatile and can also be adapted for other pasta shapes, such as Spinach Lasagne Noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese stuffed manicotti with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light marinara sauce drizzled on top enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish. This pairs beautifully with Melt In Your Mouth Lasagna for a comforting Italian feast, or try it alongside Pasta With Vegetables for a vibrant, balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Stuffing For Manicotti contains roughly 912 calories, with 64g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (145% of the Daily Value), protein (128% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1848mg 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 prepare the manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed manicotti ahead of time. Assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the stuffed manicotti?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed manicotti before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can use a blend of other cheeses like Monterey Jack or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the stuffing.
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).