Manicotti

It’s a classic Italian dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table—Manicotti. These elegant pasta tubes, stuffed with a hearty blend of cheeses and spinach, create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a quiet night in. I remember the first time I made manicotti; the aroma filling my kitchen transported me to a cozy trattoria in Tuscany. It’s a recipe that speaks to the heart, beautifully merging the flavors of Italy.

Why You’ll Love Making It

When you think of comfort food, manicotti is at the top of the list. This recipe isn’t just about filling pasta; it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere at your dining table. Here are a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:

• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this cheesy delight.
• Easy-to-Make: The steps are straightforward, making it a great choice for novice cooks.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it to guests, and they’ll think you spent hours in the kitchen.

“This manicotti recipe has become a staple in our home! It’s so cheesy and flavorful. My kids ask for it every week!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making manicotti might sound intimidating, but I assure you, it’s a simple process. Here’s a quick overview of how the cooking unfolds:

1. Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions.
2. Prepare the cheese filling by blending ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Fontina, spinach, egg, and seasonings.
3. Stuff the manicotti with this delicious mixture.
4. Layer marinara sauce in a baking dish before placing in the stuffed shells.
5. Bake until bubbly and golden.

With these steps in mind, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need.

Gather Your Ingredients

To whip up this delicious manicotti, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 manicotti pasta tubes
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Tip: For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese or adding more veggies to the mix as a delightful twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these simple directions to create your own delicious manicotti:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the manicotti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Fontina, cooked spinach, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture, being generous here for the ultimate cheesy experience!
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place stuffed manicotti in the dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and cheese is golden.
10. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Italian feast.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving manicotti, presentation can elevate the experience. Here are some creative serving ideas:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.
• Add a Side Salad: A simple arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a fresh baguette to soak up any extra marinara sauce.

Keeping Manicotti Fresh Longer

After enjoying your meal, you might find yourself with leftovers. Here’s how to store them safely:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze, wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can last for up to three months.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips and Tricks

To enhance your manicotti making experience, here are some pro chef tips:

• Use a Pastry Bag: For easy stuffing, fill a pastry bag with the cheese mixture. This saves mess and ensures each shell is perfectly filled.
• Mix and Match Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta infused with herbs for new flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the manicotti a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Creative Twists

Looking to put a spin on your classic manicotti? Consider these variations:

• Meat Lover’s Delight: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese mixture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy products with plant-based cheese alternatives and use tofu or lentils instead of the egg.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or sautéed jalapeños for a heat-infused version.

Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making manicotti:

How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, plus another 35 minutes for baking.

Can I make manicotti in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh the next day.

Is it possible to substitute the cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, just ensure they melt well.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade marinara is a wonderful addition and adds an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

With these tips and insights, you’re all set to create a memorable plate of manicotti that your family will love. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful flavors that await!

Classic Italian Manicotti

---

• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Deliciously satisfying manicotti stuffed with a flavorful blend of cheeses and spinach, perfect for any occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 manicotti pasta tubes
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the manicotti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, Fontina, cooked spinach, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Place stuffed manicotti in the dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and cheese is golden.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Consider using low-fat cheese or adding more veggies for a lighter version. Garnish with fresh herbs or serve with a side salad.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: manicotti, cheese pasta, Italian recipe, vegetarian dish, comfort food