Manicotti(Low-Fat)
Creamy and satisfying, this low-fat manicotti features tender pasta shells filled with a blend of cottage and mozzarella cheeses, baked in a flavorful light tomato sauce. Perfect for a wholesome family meal or a comforting dinner, it offers rich flavors with fewer calories.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicotti shells as directed on the box.
- Mix together cottage cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Chop tomatoes and mix into Ragu light pasta sauce.
- Pour 1 cup of tomato sauce into a baking dish.
- Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture and lay them in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of ricotta cheese to the cottage cheese mixture. You can also substitute the mozzarella with a low-fat cheddar for a different flavor. To enhance the sauce, try adding Italian herbs such as basil or oregano. If you're short on time, pre-made sauces like Basic Pesto Sauce can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this low-fat manicotti with a fresh garden salad for a light meal, or pair it with garlic bread for a heartier option. It also complements well with Italian Meat Balls for those who want to add protein to their plate. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan can also enhance presentation and flavor.
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 for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manicotti(Low-Fat) contains roughly 735 calories, with 51g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (101% of the Daily Value), calcium (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1488mg per serving (65% 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 in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the manicotti up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled manicotti before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy nights.
What can I use instead of manicotti shells?
If you can't find manicotti shells, consider using jumbo pasta shells or even lasagna noodles. For a lighter twist, zucchini slices can be used as a gluten-free alternative, although the assembly will differ slightly.
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).