Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 manicotti shells; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 3 cups fresh spinach, cooked and chopped; 1 egg; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 3 cups marinara sauce

Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with savory flavor, Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is an Italian-American classic that deserves a place in your regular dinner rotation. Tender manicotti shells are filled with a velvety mix of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta, then baked in a rich marinara sauce and blanketed with bubbly melted cheese. It’s comfort food that tastes like home, yet looks fancy enough to serve at a special gathering.

Whether you’re craving a cozy meatless dinner or prepping a hearty make-ahead dish for guests, this recipe brings both flavor and convenience. Serve it with garlic bread and a simple salad for a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti

Vegetarian and hearty: The filling is rich and satisfying, even without meat.
Perfect for meal prep: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready.
Crowd-pleaser: A family favorite that’s great for gatherings.
Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for later.

What Kind of Manicotti Shells Should I Use?

Traditional dried manicotti shells are perfect for this recipe. They hold their shape well and have a firm bite after baking. If you’re in a rush, you can also use oven-ready shells, but for best results, stick to boiling classic manicotti noodles until al dente before filling.

Ingredients for the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti

Each ingredient in this dish has a key role in creating a creamy, cheesy, and balanced flavor:

Manicotti shells: These tube-shaped pasta shells are the vessel for our luscious filling.
Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it creates the base of the filling.
Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthy flavor.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top and adds that irresistible cheesy pull.
Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor that sharpens the dish.
Egg: Helps bind the filling so it stays together inside the pasta.
Garlic: Infuses the ricotta filling with savory depth.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the mixture perfectly.
Marinara sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor and keeps everything moist while baking.

How To Make the Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the manicotti shells in salted water until just al dente. Drain and cool on a tray so they’re easy to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped cooked spinach (squeezed dry), garlic, egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Fill the Shells

Using a piping bag or spoon, gently fill each shell with the ricotta mixture. Be careful not to tear the pasta.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange filled manicotti over the sauce, then cover with more marinara and the remaining mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving and Storing This Manicotti Delight

This Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti feeds about 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for family dinner nights or meal prep for the week. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked manicotti for up to 3 months—just thaw and bake as directed.

What to Serve With Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and the ultimate sauce-scooper.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery freshness that cuts through the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a little green and a touch of char.

Creamy Caesar Salad

Brings creamy tang and crunch to the table.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warming pairing that deepens the Italian flavors.

Grilled Zucchini

A light and healthy side to balance the dish.

Balsamic Roasted Carrots

Sweet and tangy with caramelized edges.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti, check out these cozy, flavor-packed dishes:

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells — A similar take but with jumbo shells for a different texture.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna — A seafood twist with luscious layers.
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna — For spice lovers craving heat.
Creamy Beef and Shells — One-pan comfort for busy weeknights.
Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta — A hearty meat-forward option.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on garlic or sneak in some mushrooms? Did you use store-bought marinara or make it from scratch?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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