Spinach, Sausage And Cheese Manicotti
Creamy spinach, savory sausage, and melted cheese combine in this comforting baked manicotti dish. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, it offers a delightful blend of flavors with a rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese topping. A satisfying, hearty meal that appeals to all cheese and pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the pork sausage and drain excess fat.
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package directions and drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, shredded Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, and cooked sausage.
- Thaw and drain chopped spinach, then add to the cheese mixture and combine well.
- Spread 3 tablespoons of spaghetti sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Fill each cooked manicotti shell with the cheese and sausage mixture and place in the prepared pan.
- Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can be used. You can also substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage entirely or use a plant-based sausage alternative. Always taste the filling before stuffing to adjust seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this manicotti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. For a heartier option, pair it with Italian Pork Noodles. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, also enhances the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. For individual portions, microwave on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach, Sausage And Cheese Manicotti contains roughly 732 calories, with 35g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (69% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% 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 it tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese can I use instead of ricotta?
While ricotta is traditional, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar texture. If you're looking for a stronger flavor, mascarpone or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream can also work well, but adjust the seasonings accordingly.
Can I freeze the manicotti?
Yes, manicotti can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing assembled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To bake from frozen, add 15-20 minutes to the baking time. If reheating baked manicotti, ensure it’s heated through to the center before serving.
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).