Sanda'S Cheesy Manicotti
Creamy, cheesy manicotti filled with ricotta and mozzarella, topped with rich sauce and baked to perfection—an indulgent Italian classic perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook manicottis and rinse; drain well.
- Mix all ingredients except sauce.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Spread 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill the shells with the cheese mixture and place them on the sauce in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the manicotti down the center.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider blending the ricotta with a bit of cream cheese. If you want to reduce the calories, you can substitute the mozzarella cheese with a lower-fat version. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; try using fresh basil instead of dried. Additionally, you can make this dish vegetarian by ensuring your sauce is meat-free, enhancing its appeal to those looking for vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy manicotti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup. A glass of red wine can complement the flavors well. For a fresh side option, consider making Spinach Tortellini And Porcini Salad to add variety to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For quick reheating, you can also use the microwave, heating in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sanda'S Cheesy Manicotti contains roughly 201 calories, with 12g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% 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 the manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the covering and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the Italian sauce?
If you don’t have homemade Italian sauce, you can use any marinara or jarred pasta sauce. A roasted garlic or pesto sauce can also work well for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the sauce is flavorful, as it will impact the overall taste of the dish.
Can I freeze the manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled manicotti before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and 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).