Name: Baked Manicotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 manicotti shells; 16 oz (454 g) whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 cup (113 g) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese; 1 cup (113 g) shredded, sharp cheddar cheese plus 1 cup (113 g) for topping; ½ cup (50 g) shredded parmesan cheese; 1 cup (140 g) thawed frozen, chopped spinach squeezed dry; 1 large egg; 1 tsp (1 g) italian seasoning; ½ tsp (1 g) onion powder; ½ tsp (1 g) garlic powder; ½ tsp (3 g) table salt; ½ tsp (1 g) black pepper; ¼ cup (15 g) chopped fresh parsley; 24 oz (680 g) marinara sauce divided (1 cup / 240 ml for the pan)

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Baked Manicotti is a comforting Italian-American dish that beautifully combines al dente pasta shells stuffed with a rich and creamy cheese mixture, all enveloped in a fragrant marinara sauce. The experience of taking that first bite is nothing short of magic; the melted cheeses create a luscious texture while the seasoned spinach adds a lovely depth to every mouthful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a Sunday gathering, this dish brings warmth to the table, making it a family favorite.

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I still remember the first time I attempted making baked manicotti. My home was filled with the inviting aroma of melting cheese and simmering tomatoes. As I served it, the smiles and satisfied sighs around the dinner table made it clear this recipe was a winner. You, too, can create this beloved dish with ease, and I assure you that the delightful symphony of flavors will impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s not just food; it’s a cherished memory waiting to happen.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Manicotti
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Manicotti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep, this dish comes together effortlessly and bakes to perfection in about 50 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: A heavenly blend of ricotta, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a flavor explosion, while spinach adds a fresh touch.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant layers of marinara and melted cheese make this dish look stunning on any dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for a busy week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or lower-fat cheese substitutes for a healthier twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

10 manicotti shells: These pasta tubes are great for holding delicious fillings—ensure they’re al dente for easy stuffing.
16 oz (454 g) whole milk ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese provides a rich base for the filling; look for a high-quality brand for the best texture.
1 cup (113 g) shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that gooey stretch we all love.
1 cup (113 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a tangy kick; feel free to use mild cheddar if you prefer a subtler flavor.
½ cup (50 g) shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor that rounds out the cheese mixture perfectly.
1 cup (140 g) thawed frozen, chopped spinach, squeezed dry: A great way to sneak in some veggies while adding earthy notes.
1 large egg: Binds the filling together; room temperature eggs work best for even mixing.
1 tsp (1 g) Italian seasoning: Infuses herbal notes; you can use a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if needed.
½ tsp (1 g) onion powder: Enhances the overall savoriness with a subtle onion flavor.
½ tsp (1 g) garlic powder: Provides a warm undertone; fresh minced garlic can also be used for a bolder taste.
½ tsp (3 g) table salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
½ tsp (1 g) black pepper: A gentle kick that elevates the dish.
¼ cup (15 g) chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the filling.
24 oz (680 g) marinara sauce: Divided for layering; choose your favorite jar or make your own for a homemade touch.

How to Make Baked Manicotti

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the other components.
Prepare the Manicotti: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process; set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, egg, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup (240 ml) of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish to help keep the manicotti moist while baking.
Stuff the Manicotti: Transfer the ricotta mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with one corner snipped off. Pipe the filling into each manicotti shell carefully; avoid overpacking to prevent bursting during baking.
Layer Everything Together: Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer over the marinara sauce in the dish. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring every shell is well-covered. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously on top for a delicious cheesy crust.
Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is completely melted. Let it rest briefly before serving; this helps the cheese set slightly for easier serving.

Storing & Reheating

If you’ve got leftovers (or just want to make ahead), let the baked manicotti cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, but you can refresh it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of water before reheating.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the manicotti shells; they should be just al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
Make sure your cheese mixture is well-blended for an even filling; you want every bite to be just as delicious as the last.
For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the cheese mixture.
Remember to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach; excess water can make the filling watery.
If you’re short on time, using jarred marinara sauce is a great shortcut, but homemade sauce elevates the dish even more.
This dish is perfect for make-ahead; assemble everything a day before, refrigerate, and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.

Baked manicotti is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy an amazing meal together. This dish offers everyone a cozy embrace of flavors and memories with every bite. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins to personalize it for your taste. You won’t just be making a meal; you’ll be crafting a delicious moment to savor and share.

Recipe FAQs

Can I prepare baked manicotti in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the manicotti up to a day ahead of time. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a fantastic meal prep option.

What type of marinara sauce should I use?

Feel free to use your favorite store-bought marinara, or you can make your own for a fresher flavor. A simple blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs is a classic choice that works beautifully.

Can I substitute the cheeses in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or use a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or a vegan option. Just ensure whatever substitutes you use have a similar moisture content.

What can I serve with baked manicotti?

Baked manicotti pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can even serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan for an added touch!

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