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Italian Manicotti Recipe

This Italian Manicotti recipe is a cheesy, comforting classic, possibly even better than lasagna! Tender manicotti shells are generously filled with a rich ricotta and spinach mixture, smothered in a vibrant marinara sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 518.9 kcal
Protein 68g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Italian Manicotti

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Italian Manicotti

  • Manicotti
  • 3 large eggs
  • Onions
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese + 1/4 cup for topping
  • Nutmeg
  • Cream Style Cottage Cheese
  • Frozen Spinach
  • 10 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Spaghetti Sauce

How to Make Italian Manicotti

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 10 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thoroughly squeezed dry, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Gently mix until well combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Stuff manicotti shells with the ricotta mixture. (Approximately 1/4 cup per shell).
  6. Arrange the stuffed manicotti shells side-by-side in the prepared baking pan.
  7. Pour 24-28 ounces of your favorite marinara sauce evenly over the manicotti shells.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
  9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

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

65 g

Sugar

64g

Fat

44g

Carbs

17g

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion Casseroles Main Dish Eggs Dairy Pasta Vegetables Oven Easy European Potluck Holiday Event Kid Friendly Italian Cheese Eggs Dietary One Dish Meal Comfort Food Valentines Day Pasta Rice And Grains Manicotti Taste Mood To Go Equipment