Manicotti Casserole(Low-Fat)
A comforting low-fat manicotti casserole filled with ricotta, cottage cheese, and herbs, topped with marinara sauce—perfect for family dinners or healthy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix low-fat cottage cheese, part-skim ricotta cheese, grated mozzarella, egg whites, low-fat milk, chopped parsley, and oregano in a bowl.
- Spoon the cheese mixture into uncooked manicotti shells.
- Coat the bottom of a baking pan with a thin layer of spaghetti sauce.
- Place the stuffed shells on the sauce in the baking pan.
- Cover the shells with the remaining spaghetti sauce.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the shells are soft.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture. If you don't have manicotti shells, jumbo shells can be a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using plant-based cheeses and egg replacer. For added zest, mix in some Italian seasonings or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
This Manicotti Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light, refreshing Veggie Flake Pasta for an additional vegetarian option. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top just before serving can elevate the dish even more.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti Casserole(Low-Fat) contains roughly 1098 calories, with 47g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (347% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of low-fat cottage cheese?
If you prefer a different texture or flavor, you could substitute low-fat cottage cheese with ricotta cheese or a vegan alternative. Just ensure that any substitute maintains a similar consistency for the best results in the recipe.
Is there a way to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. For after baking, allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture.
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).