"Lightened" Manicotti With Cheese Filling(Makes 8 Servings)
Lightened manicotti with cheese filling offers a creamy, cheesy flavor with a healthier twist. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare manicotti shells according to package directions.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, beaten egg whites, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into the cooked manicotti shells.
- Spread a layer of low sodium tomato sauce in a baking dish.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the part-skim Ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese. You can also use whole wheat manicotti shells for added fiber. To prevent the shells from sticking, toss them with a little olive oil after cooking. Fresh basil can be a great addition to the filling for extra flavor. For a twist, try adding cooked spinach to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread would complement the dish nicely. For a complete meal, pairing with a light vegetable soup like Carotene Rich Minestrone Soup(Heart Healthy) can add a nutritious element.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Lightened" Manicotti With Cheese Filling(Makes 8 Servings) contains roughly 221 calories, with 18g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1269mg per serving (55% 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 ahead of time. Stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish with sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the egg whites?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes). Both will help bind the cheese filling without affecting the flavor.
Can I freeze the manicotti?
Yes, manicotti can be frozen. Assemble the dish completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the instructions, adding extra time if needed.
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).