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3 Cheese Manicotti Recipe

This 3 Cheese Manicotti recipe is a family heirloom, passed down and perfected over time! Originally discovered in a mail-order recipe card set, this quick and easy recipe minimizes mess and maximizes flavor. While not entirely traditional, its creamy three-cheese filling and simple preparation make it a weeknight winner. Enjoy a comforting and delicious meal ready in under an hour!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 463.7 kcal
Protein 47g
Rating 4.9 (24 Reviews)
3 Cheese Manicotti

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for 3 Cheese Manicotti

  • Manicotti
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Chive & Onion Cream Cheese
  • Spaghetti Sauce
  • 1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make 3 Cheese Manicotti

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook manicotti shells according to package directions. Rinse well under cold water and set aside to dry completely.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 3 cups (6 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until well combined.
  4. Spread a thin layer of your favorite marinara sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking dish.
  5. Fill each manicotti shell with the cream cheese mixture. Arrange the filled shells in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti, ensuring they are mostly covered.
  7. Sprinkle 1 cup (2 ounces) of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil, sprinkle with 1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the manicotti is heated through. Keep a close eye on it as ovens vary!
  10. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

44 g

Sugar

38g

Fat

95g

Carbs

5g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion 5 Ingredients Or Less Main Dish Pasta Oven Easy European Potluck Italian One Dish Meal Pasta Rice And Grains Manicotti To Go Equipment