Old World Manicotti
Creamy, cheesy manicotti shells stuffed with basil-infused ricotta and mozzarella, baked in flavorful spaghetti sauce—perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Cook the manicotti shells until al dente, then drain and rinse.
- In a medium bowl, mix 3 cups of shredded Mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and chopped fresh basil.
- Using a teaspoon, stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture.
- Pour 2 cups of spaghetti sauce into the prepared baking pan.
- Arrange the stuffed shells over the sauce in the pan.
- Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from oven.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrition. If you don't have fresh basil, dried basil can be used, though the flavor may differ slightly. Ensure the manicotti shells are not overcooked to prevent them from tearing. For a richer flavor, try incorporating some Italian seasoning or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this manicotti with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette pairs well, balancing the richness of the cheesy filling. For a comforting dish, consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like 'Three Cheese Lasagne Roll-Ups' for a delightful pasta night.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. You can add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old World Manicotti contains roughly 727 calories, with 55g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (130% of the Daily Value), iron (111% of the Daily Value), and protein (110% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1495mg 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 freeze manicotti before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled manicotti before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you need a substitute for ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can work in a pinch. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. Greek yogurt is another option, providing a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
How do I know when the manicotti is done baking?
The manicotti is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the dish are starting to turn golden brown. A cooking time of about 25 minutes total is usually perfect, but keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
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).