My kids always ask for my “special pasta.” It started years ago, trying to get more greens into them without a fuss. My middle one, Liam, was a famously picky eater. I remember that evening vividly: he took one bite of this new creation, his eyes widened with surprise, and he declared, “Mom, this is like a cheesy cloud!” That’s the moment my Cheesy Spinach Manicotti became a legendary dish in our home.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, a silent promise of comfort and nourishment after a long day. This delightful Cheesy Spinach Manicotti brings smiles every single time, proving that simple ingredients, prepared with love, can create truly profound family favorites. It’s comforting, hearty, and universally adored, embodying everything I believe a good family meal should be.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As a mom of three, I truly understand the daily juggle of getting a wholesome, delicious dinner on the table without feeling completely overwhelmed. This Cheesy Spinach Manicotti recipe solves so many dinner dilemmas, and I promise you’ll adore it. It’s incredibly comforting, packed with rich flavor, and deceptively easy to prepare, even on your busiest weeknights.
You will absolutely fall in love with the creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach mixture, perfectly encased in tender manicotti shells. All of this deliciousness comes smothered in a robust marinara sauce, then blanketed with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, creating that irresistible golden, bubbly top. This dish truly delivers on its name: Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
It brings everyone to the table without complaint, often eliciting happy sighs and requests for seconds. It stands as a fantastic make-ahead option, making it ideal for meal prepping for the week ahead, or preparing for special Sunday dinners when you want more time with your family. Plus, this recipe ingeniously sneaks in a good amount of spinach, making it a genuine win-win for both taste buds and nutrition – a definite bonus for any parent!
This Cheesy Spinach Manicotti promises warmth, satisfaction, and pure joy in every single bite. Get ready to discover your new go-to comfort food that will quickly become a cherished tradition in your household.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is straightforward; you likely have many of these staples already. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting classic:
* 16-20 manicotti shells (1 box, usually 8 ounces)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
* 2 cups (16 ounces) ricotta cheese
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus an additional 1 cup for topping
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus an additional 1/4 cup for topping
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or your favorite homemade sauce)
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is its incredible adaptability. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers, making it truly your own!
* Cheese Swaps: Want to change up the cheese profile? Instead of just ricotta, consider using a blend of ricotta and cottage cheese for a slightly lighter texture; just ensure you drain the cottage cheese well to avoid a watery filling. You can easily swap out the mozzarella for provolone, a Monterey Jack blend, or even a smoked gouda for a different, delightful cheesy pull.
A little cream cheese, about a tablespoon, mixed into the ricotta adds an extra layer of creaminess to your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
* Greens Power: If fresh spinach is readily available, absolutely use it! You’ll need about 10-12 ounces (a large bag) of fresh spinach.
Sauté it until it completely wilts, then, crucially, squeeze out all excess water before mixing it into the cheese filling. Kale, finely chopped and sautéed, also makes a wonderful, slightly earthier alternative for this spinach manicotti.
* Add Protein: To transform this vegetarian Cheesy Spinach Manicotti into a heartier meal, brown 1 pound of ground chicken or lean ground beef with the onion and garlic.
Drain any excess fat, then mix the cooked meat directly into the spinach and cheese filling. Cooked, crumbled Italian-style plant-based sausage also works wonderfully for a vegetarian but still robust option. For a simpler protein boost, stir in some cooked, finely diced lentils with the spinach mixture.
* Sauce It Up: Don’t limit yourself to traditional marinara sauce. A creamy rosé sauce pairs beautifully with the rich filling of this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti. You could also try a spicy arrabiata sauce for a kick, or even a homemade roasted red pepper sauce for a unique twist.
* Extra Veggies: For an even more nutrient-packed meal, sauté some finely diced mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the onion and garlic. This adds extra flavor, texture, and vitamins to your already delicious Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
* Spice Factor: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or directly into the cheese filling. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile without overpowering the classic taste of your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
One of the best things about this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is its incredible adaptability. You can easily explore other delicious options, like Cheesy Pizza Burritos, to customize your meal based on what your family prefers!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting this comforting Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is a rewarding process. Follow these clear steps for a perfect outcome every time.
1. Prepare the Manicotti Shells: First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the manicotti shells and cook them according to package directions, aiming for a firm al dente texture.
This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking. Immediately drain the cooked shells and rinse them thoroughly with cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet or a clean kitchen towel to cool while you prepare the delicious filling.
This crucial step makes stuffing your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti much easier and minimizes tearing.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin the delicate balance of your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
3. Prepare the Spinach: Ensure your frozen chopped spinach is completely thawed. This is a crucial step: squeeze out every single drop of excess water from the spinach.
Use a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels, twisting tightly until no more liquid comes out. This step is vital to prevent a watery filling that could compromise the texture of your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti. Add the well-squeezed spinach to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, just to warm it through and combine all the delightful flavors. Remove the skillet from the heat.
4.
Make the Cheesy Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the large egg, dried oregano, and dried basil. Add the sautéed spinach mixture from the skillet. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. This mixture forms the delicious, creamy heart of your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
5.
Preheat Oven and Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This creates a flavorful base for the manicotti and helps prevent the shells from sticking to the pan during baking, ensuring your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti comes out perfectly.
6. Stuff the Manicotti: Carefully fill each cooled, cooked manicotti shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. You can use a small spoon, a piping bag fitted with a wide tip, or even your clean fingers.
Be gentle as you fill each shell to avoid tearing them. This step might require a little patience, but the effort is absolutely worth it for beautifully filled Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
7.
Arrange and Sauce: Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. They should fit snugly but not be overly crowded. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the arranged manicotti, ensuring all the shells are well covered.
8. Add Final Cheeses: Generously sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the sauce-covered manicotti. This creates that irresistible golden, bubbly, and deeply flavorful topping that makes this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti so appealing.
9. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, beautifully bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.
10. Rest and Serve: Let the Cheesy Spinach Manicotti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
This crucial resting period allows the sauce to settle and the cheeses to firm up slightly, making for easier, cleaner serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a touch of freshness and color.
Pro Tips for Success
Making a truly exceptional Cheesy Spinach Manicotti comes down to a few key techniques I’ve learned and refined over many years in my kitchen. These little tricks make a big difference!
First, when you boil your manicotti shells, always aim to undercook them slightly – just to al dente. They will finish cooking beautifully in the oven, ensuring they don’t turn into a mushy, unappetizing mess. A quick rinse with cold water right after draining also works wonders; it halts the cooking process and helps prevent the delicate shells from sticking together, which is a lifesaver when you’re preparing to stuff your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
Second, that step of squeezing ALL the water from the thawed spinach? Absolutely critical. I cannot stress this enough!
Soggy spinach will lead to a watery, flavorless filling, and nobody wants that in their delicious Cheesy Spinach Manicotti. Use a clean kitchen towel and twist it tightly, exerting as much pressure as possible until no more liquid comes out. You’ll be surprised how much water hides in there!
For stuffing the shells, a piping bag with a wide tip truly works wonders and keeps your hands clean. It allows for quick, even distribution of the filling. No piping bag?
No problem at all! A small spoon works just fine with a bit of patience, or you can even improvise with a sturdy freezer bag by snipping off a corner in a pinch. Remember, don’t overstuff; a gentle fill prevents the shells from tearing as you handle them.
Making a truly exceptional Cheesy Spinach Manicotti comes down to a few key techniques I’ve learned over the years. These tips will be even more useful when paired with a side dish like Cheesy White Bean Tomato Bake, which complements the richness of the pasta beautifully!
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Cheesy Spinach Manicotti makes fantastic leftovers, which is a huge win for any busy household. It’s perfect for convenient lunches the next day or even another easy dinner later in the week.
To store, allow the baked manicotti to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, this Cheesy Spinach Manicotti freezes exceptionally well! You have two great options: you can freeze it either baked or unbaked.
* To freeze unbaked: Assemble the entire manicotti dish in a freezer-safe aluminum pan.
Cover it tightly first with aluminum foil, and then add an additional layer of plastic wrap for extra protection against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator.
Remove it from the fridge at least 30 minutes before baking, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time.
* To freeze baked: Once the Cheesy Spinach Manicotti has cooled completely, you can portion individual servings into freezer-safe containers or freeze the entire dish. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating is wonderfully simple:
* For refrigerated portions: Warm individual servings in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can cover a portion with foil and bake it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
* For frozen baked portions: If possible, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first.
Then reheat in the oven as described above. If reheating from frozen, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, uncovering for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.
This versatility makes Cheesy Spinach Manicotti a true meal prep hero, saving you time and effort on busy days.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This hearty Cheesy Spinach Manicotti truly shines as the main event, offering comfort and robust flavors. However, a few simple, complementary sides can complete the meal beautifully, balancing the richness of the pasta.
I often pair it with a crisp green salad, dressed lightly with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens cuts through the creaminess of the cheese and sauce, offering a delightful contrast. A simple Caesar salad also works wonderfully, adding a touch of classic Italian-American flair that everyone enjoys.
Garlic bread, or even just some crusty Italian bread, is always a huge hit with my kids. It’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious marinara sauce and cheese from the bottom of the plate – truly irresistible!
If you’re looking to add even more vegetables to your meal, a side of roasted asparagus, tender broccoli, or crisp green beans would be perfect. Simply toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender-crisp. The fresh, bright flavors of these simple sides complement the comforting depth of the Cheesy Spinach Manicotti without overshadowing it, creating a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying family dinner.
This hearty Cheesy Spinach Manicotti truly shines as the main event, but it can be enhanced with some delicious sides. Consider serving it alongside Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Rice to create a well-rounded meal that balances flavors perfectly!
FAQs
Can I prepare Cheesy Spinach Manicotti ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for entertaining or simplifying a busy weeknight. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge at least 30 minutes prior to allow it to come closer to room temperature. Then, follow the baking instructions as usual, potentially adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to ensure it heats through completely. This strategy makes mealtime much less stressful.
What if I can’t find manicotti shells?
Don’t worry if manicotti shells are unavailable; you have a couple of excellent alternatives for your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti! You can easily use dried cannelloni shells, which are very similar in shape and size, though they might be slightly narrower and require a bit more careful stuffing. Another fantastic option involves using lasagna noodles.
Boil the lasagna noodles until they are al dente. Once cooked, spread the spinach and cheese filling along one end of each noodle, roll them up neatly, and then arrange them in your baking dish just as you would the manicotti. This creates a delicious “lasagna roll-up” that tastes just like traditional Cheesy Spinach Manicotti.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you absolutely can use fresh spinach for your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti! You will need approximately 10-12 ounces (which is typically about two large bunches) of fresh spinach. Wash it thoroughly, then sauté it in a large pan with a small amount of olive oil until it completely wilts down.
Once wilted, let it cool slightly. Then – and this step is just as critical as with frozen spinach – squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This prevents a watery filling for your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti. After squeezing, proceed with the recipe as directed, mixing it into your cheese mixture.
Is Cheesy Spinach Manicotti suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this specific recipe for Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is naturally vegetarian! It relies entirely on the delightful combination of cheese, spinach, and marinara sauce for its main flavors, with no meat products included. It makes a wonderfully satisfying, hearty, and flavorful meal for anyone following a vegetarian diet. As a general practice, always double-check the ingredients list of your marinara sauce to ensure it is meat-free if you are serving strict vegetarians, but most commercial marinara sauces are vegetarian-friendly.
How do I prevent the manicotti shells from tearing when stuffing?
To prevent your manicotti shells from tearing, boil them just until al dente – meaning they are still slightly firm, not overly soft. This leaves them pliable enough to handle but sturdy enough to hold their shape. Once cooked, immediately rinse them with cold water and lay them out individually on a baking sheet or a clean kitchen towel to cool; this crucial step prevents them from sticking together.
For stuffing, using a piping bag with a wide tip works best for easy, gentle filling. If you don’t have one, a small spoon or even your clean fingers can work effectively. Hold the shell gently but firmly, and avoid overstuffing it. A little patience and care in this step go a long way to ensure your Cheesy Spinach Manicotti looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is a delicious dish that combines flavorful cheese and spinach stuffed into pasta tubes, then baked to perfection. This popular Italian-American meal showcases how simple ingredients can be transformed into a comforting dish that often evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth, similar to classic pasta recipes.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Based on 6 servings, approximate values)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 65 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Sugars | 8 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
Cheesy Spinach Manicotti
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Spinach Manicotti is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that features tender manicotti shells filled with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with marinara sauce and generous layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
16–20 pieces Manicotti shells
2 tablespoons Olive oil
1 small Onion, finely chopped
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 package (10 ounces) Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
2 cups (16 ounces) Ricotta cheese
1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese, plus 1 cup for topping
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese, plus 1/4 cup for topping
1 large Egg
1 teaspoon Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Dried basil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 jar (24 ounces) Marinara sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Manicotti Shells: Boil salted water, cook manicotti shells per package for al dente, drain, and cool
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil, sauté onion until translucent, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute
- Prepare the Spinach: Thaw and squeeze all moisture from spinach, then sauté with onion and garlic
- Make the Cheesy Filling: Combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, egg, oregano, basil, and spinach mixture in a bowl; season with salt and pepper
- Preheat Oven and Prep Dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread marinara sauce in a baking dish
- Stuff the Manicotti: Fill each shell with the cheese filling
- Arrange and Sauce: Place filled shells in baking dish and top with remaining marinara sauce
- Add Final Cheeses: Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes
- Rest and Serve: Let sit for 5-10 minutes, garnish with parsley before serving
Notes
Use a piping bag for easy filling of the manicotti shells.
Resting the dish after baking allows easier serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 manicotti
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg