Spinach Cheese Manicotti Recipe ๐ฟ๐ง
Overview:
Spinach Cheese Manicotti is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of spinach with the creamy richness of cheese, all wrapped up in tender manicotti shells. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner on a winter evening or for sharing at a potluck gathering. With a prep time of just 1 hour and 35 minutes total, including cooking, this dish is a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Onion |
| 3 cloves | Garlic |
| 1 cup | Ricotta cheese |
| 1 1/2 cups | Mozzarella cheese |
| 1 cup | Cream cheese |
| 4 tbsp | Parmesan cheese |
| 6 oz | Frozen chopped spinach |
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1/2 tsp | Italian seasoning |
| 1/4 – 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/2 tsp | Pepper |
| 1 box | Manicotti shells |
| 1 jar | Spaghetti sauce |
Instructions:
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Saute Onion and Garlic: Begin by sautรฉing finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Set aside.
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Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, 4 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Beat the mixture until smooth and well incorporated.
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Add Spinach: To the cheese mixture, add the thawed and well-drained frozen chopped spinach along with the sautรฉed onion and garlic. Stir until the spinach is evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
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Fill Manicotti Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and cheese mixture. Ensure the shells are evenly filled without overstuffing.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
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Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Layer and Bake: Pour half of the spaghetti sauce into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Arrange the filled manicotti shells over the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the top of the shells, covering them completely.
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Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the manicotti shells to cook through.
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Add Cheese Topping: After 25 minutes, uncover the baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the manicotti.
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Final Bake: Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the manicotti are golden brown.
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Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the Spinach Cheese Manicotti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 587.7 per serving
- Fat Content: 38.9g
- Saturated Fat: 20.1g
- Cholesterol: 107mg
- Sodium: 1588.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 33.2g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 19.8g
- Protein: 28.6g
Serving:
This recipe serves 4 generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. Pair it with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy the flavorsome combination of creamy cheese and nutritious spinach in every bite of this delightful Spinach Cheese Manicotti recipe. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home and will leave everyone coming back for seconds!
