Microwave Manicotti
Creamy ricotta and mozzarella stuffed manicotti shells baked with flavorful mushroom-spaghetti sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare manicotti shells according to package directions and drain.
- Combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Fill each manicotti shell with about 1/3 cup cheese mixture, splitting shells if needed.
- Arrange filled shells in a 7 x 11-inch baking dish.
- In a medium pan, cook sliced mushrooms covered on high for 2 to 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Drain and discard liquid from mushrooms.
- Stir mushrooms into the spaghetti sauce.
- Spoon the sauce over the filled shells.
- Shield the two long sides of the baking dish with 2-inch wide strips of smooth foil (optional).
- Cook covered on high for 8 minutes, then discard foil and rotate the dish.
- Cook covered for an additional 4 to 6 minutes until hot and bubbling.
- Let stand covered for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. If you don't have manicotti shells, jumbo pasta shells can be a great substitute. For added flavor, sauté some spinach or bell peppers with the mushrooms before mixing them into the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Zepolies or side salads for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the manicotti with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Pair with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a balanced meal. A light drizzle of olive oil or a side of Italian Pita Crisps can enhance the dining experience. This dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Manicotti contains roughly 360 calories, with 19g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (185% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. At about 360 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 the manicotti shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shells a day in advance. Cook them according to package instructions, then let them cool before filling and storing them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add the sauce and follow the cooking instructions.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be a good alternative. Simply blend it until smooth for a similar texture. You could also use a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.
Can I freeze the assembled manicotti?
Absolutely! You can assemble the manicotti and freeze them before cooking. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the original instructions.
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).