When it comes to easy dinner recipes for family, this Baked Spinach and Cheese Manicotti stands out as a delightful option. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, all topped with a tangy marinara sauce and bubbling cheese. Everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Imagine the satisfaction of serving this hearty dish that not only tastes amazing but also brings your family together for a beautiful meal. This manicotti is not just another recipe; it’s a way to enjoy quality time with loved ones while indulging in a warm, cheesy delight.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. You can even make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
Comforting Baked Spinach and Cheese Manicotti
This Baked Spinach and Cheese Manicotti is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish filled with fresh spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella, all baked to perfection. The flavors blend harmoniously, delivering a taste that is rich, savory, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 manicotti pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese and spinach mixture.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the filled shells and sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
