Best & Easy Spinach Cheese Manicotti Recipe

Craving Comfort Food? You Need This Spinach Cheese Manicotti!

Picture this: perfectly cooked pasta shells, brimming with a creamy, cheesy spinach filling, all baked to golden perfection. This Spinach Cheese Manicotti is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly flavorful, with a rich combination of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and melted mozzarella.
• The texture is divine, from the slightly chewy pasta to the smooth, cheesy filling.
• It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks.
• This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• It can be easily customized with your favorite cheeses or spices.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

Unlike some manicotti recipes that use a basic tomato sauce, this version is baked in a luscious, lightly flavored white sauce, which adds a layer of creamy richness that is simply irresistible. The combination of fresh spinach with a touch of nutmeg in the filling also elevates the flavors beyond the ordinary. Also, we take the extra step of cooking the spinach before incorporating it into the ricotta mixture, ensuring the best possible texture and flavor.

Ingredient List

• 12 large manicotti shells
• 1 (10 ounce) package of frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ricotta cheese provides the creamy base for the filling, while fresh nutmeg adds a touch of warm spice that elevates the overall flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, the Parmesan cheese, egg, nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the squeezed spinach to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until a smooth paste forms. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Carefully fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
7. Pour about 1/2 cup of the white sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in the baking dish.
9. Pour the remaining white sauce over the shells.
10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
12. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take it up a notch? Consider adding:

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil before serving for added freshness.
• A layer of extra cheese like provolone for a more intense flavor.
• A touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Expert Tips

• Squeeze the thawed spinach very well to remove excess moisture, this is crucial for the right consistency.
• Cook the garlic in olive oil until fragrant, not browned, to avoid a bitter taste.
• Don’t overcook the white sauce, as it will thicken more while baking. It should be just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
• Use a spoon or small piping bag to fill the manicotti shells evenly and neatly.
• Allow the manicotti to rest for 10 minutes after baking before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
  

  Yes, you can! Just wilt about 1 pound of fresh spinach in a pan, then finely chop it and squeeze out the excess moisture.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  

  Absolutely! Assemble the manicotti in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

• Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
  

  You can substitute cottage cheese, but the texture will be slightly different, it will have a more wet texture. It is better to use whole milk ricotta rather then part skim.

• How should I store leftovers?
  

  Store any leftover manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

• Can I freeze the finished dish?
  

  Yes, you can! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative and make this recipe your own! Try these delicious variations:

• Mushroom Manicotti: Add sauteed mushrooms to the spinach filling for an earthy flavor.
• Chicken Manicotti: Mix in some shredded cooked chicken or other protein for a heartier meal.
• Spicy Manicotti: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Pesto Manicotti: Stir a spoonful of pesto into the ricotta mixture for a more flavorful filling.
• Vegetable Medley Manicotti: Incorporate cooked chopped veggies like bell peppers and zucchini into the filling.

Serving Suggestions

This Spinach Cheese Manicotti is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad, some garlic bread, or a simple roasted vegetable. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, or for entertaining a crowd.

Conclusion

This Spinach Cheese Manicotti is a guaranteed winner! It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying, and it’s easier to make than you might think. Why wait? Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your photos and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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• Stuffed Mushrooms

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