Manicotti Casserole
A creamy and cheesy manicotti casserole featuring tender pasta filled with a blend of Monterey Jack, Swiss, and mozzarella cheeses, all baked in savory spaghetti sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and hearty satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the manicotti noodles according to the package instructions; then let them cool.
- Stuff each cooled manicotti noodle with a mixture of grated Monterey Jack, Swiss, and mozzarella cheeses.
- Place the stuffed manicotti in a baking dish.
- Cover the manicotti with Prego meat spaghetti sauce.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and hot, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese to your cheese mixture. You can also substitute the Prego meat sauce with a homemade marinara for a fresher taste. If you have leftovers, think about adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also use gluten-free manicotti noodles if needed, making this a versatile dish for various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This Manicotti Casserole pairs beautifully with Garlic Bread Sticks for a complete meal. A side of mixed greens or a simple Tortellini Salad can also complement the rich flavors of the dish. For a heartier dinner, serve with a glass of red wine and finish with a light dessert like Italian Cheese Pie for a satisfying end to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much, and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti Casserole contains roughly 448 calories, with 1g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% 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 this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply use a vegetarian spaghetti sauce instead of the Prego meat sauce, and ensure that all cheeses used are rennet-free. This will keep the dish vegetarian-friendly while still being delicious.
How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
To prevent manicotti noodles from sticking, rinse them in cold water after cooking and toss them lightly with a bit of olive oil. Also, ensuring the noodles are slightly undercooked before stuffing can help as they will absorb some moisture from the sauce during baking.
Can I freeze the Manicotti Casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).