Manicotti With Spinach
Creamy and savory, this manicotti with spinach features tender pasta shells filled with a rich cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce and Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it combines classic Italian flavors with a comforting, cheesy texture and a hint of green from spinach.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicotti shells as directed on the package, then rinse with cold water and drain.
- Combine cottage cheese, cream cheese, beaten egg, sliced green onion, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Fill the cooked manicotti shells with the cheese mixture and place them in a lightly oiled baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
- Cook frozen chopped spinach as directed on the package, then spoon it over the baked manicotti before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute ricotta for the cottage cheese. For a creamier texture, try mixing in some sour cream. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This dish also pairs well with Italian recipes like Baked Italian Macaroni Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti hot, garnished with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a delightful touch, consider serving it alongside Zucchini Pizza Style for a colorful dinner spread. A glass of red wine would also complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the manicotti in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti With Spinach contains roughly 1406 calories, with 40g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), calcium (74% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
If you're looking for alternatives to marinara sauce, consider using Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation, or a pesto sauce for a fresh, herby flavor. You could also make a homemade tomato sauce with canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a customizable option.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, manicotti can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes 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).