There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti.

This Italian classic combines tender pasta tubes filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

I love how the vibrant spinach adds a pop of color and a touch of earthiness, making this dish not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Table of Contents

Ingredient List

To create my delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti, I gather the following ingredients:

Manicotti shells: 12 large shells
Fresh spinach: 3 cups, chopped (or you can use frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces
Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded (plus 1/2 cup for topping)
Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
Egg: 1 large
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Marinara sauce: 3 cups (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (optional for sautéing spinach)

This combination of ingredients ensures a rich and flavorful filling, perfectly complemented by the marinara sauce. Each bite bursts with cheesy goodness enhanced by the nutritious spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the manicotti.

Prepare the Spinach

If I’m using fresh spinach, I wash and roughly chop about 3 cups. For frozen spinach, I need to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture. I prefer squeezing it with my hands to ensure it’s completely dry.

Sauté the Garlic

In a medium skillet, I heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. I add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. I make sure not to burn it.

Combine the Filling

In a large bowl, I mix the prepared spinach with 15 oz of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. I stir this mixture until it’s well combined and creamy.

Stuff the Manicotti

I take the manicotti shells and carefully fill each one with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. I ensure they are generously filled but not overflowing.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, I pour about 2 cups of marinara sauce to cover the bottom. This prevents the manicotti from sticking as it bakes.

Arrange the Manicotti

I place the stuffed manicotti in the baking dish in a single layer. I then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, covering the shells evenly.

Add Cheese on Top

To make it extra cheesy, I sprinkle another 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce.

Cover and Bake

I cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese, and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Uncover and Finish Baking

After 25 minutes, I carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let It Rest

Once done, I take the baking dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes for easier serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti, I often consider a few tips and variations to customize the dish and enhance flavors. Here are some of my favorites:

Pasta Alternatives: If I don’t have manicotti shells on hand, I love using jumbo pasta shells as an alternative. They provide a similar texture and hold the filling just as well.
Greens Mix: I sometimes like to change things up by using a mix of greens. Chard or kale works beautifully alongside spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Options: While ricotta is a classic choice, I like experimenting with different cheeses. I’ve found that adding a bit of goat cheese or even cottage cheese can provide a delightful tang.
Herb Personalization: Italian seasoning is a go-to for me, but fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme can brighten the filling. I recommend finely chopping the herbs and mixing them into the cheese blend for an aromatic boost.
Vegetable Add-ins: For those extra veggies, I often sauté mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the spinach. This adds an additional layer of flavor and a colorful touch.
Protein Boost: If I’m looking to add protein, I sometimes incorporate cooked sausage or ground turkey into the filling. It’s a satisfying way to make the dish heartier.
Sauce Variety: While marinara sauce is delicious, I occasionally switch it up with Alfredo sauce or a homemade white sauce for a creamy twist. I find that the flavors blend perfectly with the cheesy filling.
Freezing for Later: If I make a large batch, I enjoy freezing some of the manicotti. I assemble them in a baking dish, cover well, and place them in the freezer. When I am ready to bake, I thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Serving Suggestions: I love serving my manicotti with a side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top before serving always elevates the dish.

These tips and variations are a great way to personalize my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti. With each modification, I find that the dish takes on a new character while retaining its comforting essence.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving my Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti with a variety of accompaniments to enhance the dining experience. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Side Salads

A fresh salad pairs beautifully with the creamy manicotti. I often prepare a simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and the tangy dressing provide a nice balance to the richness of the pasta.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is my go-to side. The warm, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover marinara sauce on the plate. I like to toast some Italian bread with a sprinkle of garlic powder and a brush of olive oil for added flavor.

Vegetable Medley

A sautéed vegetable medley is a colorful and nutritious option. I typically choose seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of Italian herbs enhance the natural flavors.

Grated Cheese & Fresh Herbs

To elevate the presentation, I enjoy garnishing the manicotti with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley. This adds a burst of color and an aromatic touch that makes the dish more inviting.

Balsamic Glaze

A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the finished manicotti adds a sweet tanginess that contrasts nicely with the savory filling. Just a little bit goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.

Wine Pairing

If I’m in the mood for wine, I recommend a light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. Both complement the flavors of the spinach and ricotta wonderfully.

Nutrition Information

I love knowing the nutrition behind my favorite dishes, and Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is no exception.

Each serving is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet.

Below are the estimated nutritional values per serving for this delicious dish:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	310
Protein	15g
Carbohydrates	35g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	450mg
Calcium	25% DV
Iron	15% DV
Vitamin A	35% DV
Vitamin C	8% DV

This breakdown highlights how Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti contributes to my daily intake of important nutrients.

Spinach provides a generous source of iron and vitamins A and C, while the combination of ricotta and mozzarella adds protein and calcium, promoting strong bones and muscles.

The fiber content supports digestive health, making this dish not only comforting but also nourishing.

Conclusion

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is one of those dishes that warms my heart and fills my belly.

It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort to the table.

Whether I’m enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with friends, every bite reminds me of the joys of cooking and sharing good food.

I love how versatile this dish is too. With so many ways to customize it, I can keep things fresh and exciting.

So next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and delicious, give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it!