Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the delightful scent of marinara bubbling away on the stove, while tender pasta envelopes a rich blend of spinach and creamy ricotta. This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara isn’t just a dish; it’s a hug in a plate, perfect for those nights when only a comforting meal will do.
I discovered this recipe during a rainy weekend, with a longing to escape the monotony of takeout. Each bite of cheesy goodness transports you to a charming Italian trattoria, yet it’s surprisingly effortless to make. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour, you’ll impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to join you at the table.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress your friends at a gathering, this manicotti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying culinary adventure, where homemade pasta magic awaits!
Why You'll Love This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
- This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delightful dish in under an hour.
- The rich flavors of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach combined with a savory marinara sauce will make your taste buds dance with joy.
- It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
- Plus, the gorgeous presentation of manicotti in marinara sauce will impress your guests and make your meal feel extra special.
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create your delicious Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara!
For the Manicotti Filling
- Ricotta cheese – a creamy base that adds richness to the filling.
- Fresh spinach – packed with nutrients and a vibrant green color that brightens the dish.
- Parmesan cheese – brings a savory, nutty flavor that complements the ricotta perfectly.
- Egg – helps bind the filling ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
- Salt – enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
For the Marinara Sauce
- Canned crushed tomatoes – the heart of the sauce, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Olive oil – adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic essence that makes it irresistible.
- Dried oregano – brings a classic Italian flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning to taste, elevating all the flavors.
For Assembly
- Manicotti shells – these tubes are the perfect vessel for holding your delicious filling.
- Fresh basil (optional) – for a lovely garnish that adds freshness and color to the finished dish.
This delightful combination makes for a fantastic meal that not only satisfies hunger but celebrates homemade comfort food at its finest!
How to Make Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven ensures that your manicotti cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden top.
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Cook the spinach in a skillet with a touch of olive oil over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the spinach before adding it to the filling.
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Combine the ricotta, cooked spinach, Parmesan, egg, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir well until everything is evenly incorporated, creating a creamy filling you won’t be able to resist!
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Fill the manicotti shells carefully with the ricotta and spinach mixture using a piping bag or a small spoon. Ensure each shell is stuffed generously so every bite is packed with flavor.
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Prepare the marinara sauce by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors beautifully.
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Layer half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled manicotti shells on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, covering them completely.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the manicotti is tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look golden and delicious!
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Garnish with fresh basil before serving for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Enjoy each comforting bite of your Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara.
Optional: Top with additional grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara?
There’s nothing like rounding out a comforting meal with delightful sides and drinks to elevate your spinach and ricotta creation.
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Garlic Bread: This classic side adds a crunchy texture and buttery flavor, perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, roasted to perfection, offer a delightful contrast in taste and texture, enhancing your dining experience.
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Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio brings out the flavors of the dish. Its acidity complements the cheesy filling and rich sauce beautifully.
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Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, which adds a luscious coffee-flavored finish to your dining adventure.
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Lemon Sorbet: For something lighter, this refreshing dessert cleanses the palate, providing a zesty contrast to the hearty manicotti.
Pairing these choices with your spinach and ricotta manicotti will create a complete and satisfying Italian feast that your loved ones will remember!
Spinach & Ricotta Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti, bringing your unique flair to this delightful dish!
- Gluten-Free: Swap manicotti shells for gluten-free pasta tubes to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Meat Lover’s: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the ricotta filling for a hearty, protein-packed version that pleases any crowd.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley into the filling for an aromatic boost that brightens the dish.
- Vegan: Use cashew cream instead of ricotta, nutritional yeast for cheesiness, and flax eggs to create a plant-based twist that’s equally satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a zesty kick that livens things up, balancing the creamy ricotta beautifully.
- Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Layer mozzarella and cheddar atop the manicotti before baking for a gooey, cheesy topping that’ll make everyone swoon.
- Pesto Infusion: Stir some basil pesto into the ricotta filling for a burst of flavor that elevates each bite with its rich, herby taste.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked Gouda cheese in the ricotta mix for a unique twist that adds depth and complexity to the overall dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping in advance! You can prepare the filling (ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, and salt) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality and freshness, be sure to keep the filling in an airtight container. Additionally, you can fill the manicotti shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just layer the marinara sauce over the filled shells right before putting them in the oven. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply bake it according to the original recipe instructions for delicious results that taste just as fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
Fridge: Keep your Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the pasta fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the manicotti in a freezer-safe container, layering with parchment paper if necessary. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before baking.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the manicotti in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You might want to cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
Assembly: If you prefer to prepare it ahead, assemble the manicotti in the baking dish and freeze before baking. Just allow extra time when cooking from frozen!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara, ensure that your ricotta is well-drained to prevent a watery filling.
- Sautéing the spinach beforehand not only enhances its flavor but also reduces moisture, making for a better filling consistency.
- Use a piping bag to fill the manicotti shells for cleaner, more efficient stuffing without damaging the delicate pasta.
- Remember to preheat your oven to 375°F to achieve that perfect bubbling effect in your marinara sauce while your manicotti bakes.
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting spinach?
Absolutely! When choosing spinach, opt for fresh leaves that are vibrant green, tender, and crisp. Avoid any leaves with dark spots, yellowing, or wilting, as these indicate age. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can also use thawed frozen spinach — just be sure to squeeze out the excess water!
How long can I store leftover manicotti in the fridge?
You can store your Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti tightly covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time, making each bite even more delightful when you go to enjoy the leftovers!
Can I freeze Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the manicotti in a freezer-safe container, possibly layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
What’s the best way to reheat manicotti?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the manicotti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to get a beautifully bubbly top!
Can my pets share this dish?
It’s best to keep this dish away from pets. The garlic in the marinara sauce can be harmful to dogs and cats, and the cheese may upset their stomachs. Always keep an eye on what they’re sampling from your kitchen adventures!
What if my filling is too runny?
If your filling seems too runny, one effective way to thicken it is to add an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese or a bit of breadcrumbs until you reach the desired consistency. Also, make sure your ricotta is well-drained, and always sauté your spinach to minimize excess moisture!
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spinach in a skillet with a touch of olive oil over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the ricotta, cooked spinach, Parmesan, egg, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Fill the manicotti shells carefully with the ricotta and spinach mixture using a piping bag or a small spoon.
- Prepare the marinara sauce by heating olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute, then add crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Layer half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled manicotti shells on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the manicotti is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
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