There’s something truly special about a cozy dinner coming together, and one dish that never fails to impress is Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara. I remember the first time I tried making this—it was an attempt to break away from our usual takeout routine. As soon as that creamy ricotta and fresh spinach filling hit the tender pasta tubes, I knew I’d stumbled upon a family favorite.
With each bite, a burst of flavor unfolds, thanks to the rich marinara sauce that ties everything together. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of homemade goodness that rivals any restaurant dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or fancying up your weekend gatherings, this recipe is your answer to that craving for comforting, flavorful food. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy nights when you want to serve something wholesome without the fuss. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe and bring a taste of Italy right into your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
- This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara is a deliciously simple recipe that makes for an impressive meal without extensive effort.
- The rich and savory flavors meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.
- Its versatility allows you to serve it on any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends and family.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors and elegant presentation, this dish is sure to impress your guests and make your table look stunning.
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti Ingredients
• Discover the magic of this creamy and comforting dish!
For the Manicotti
- Manicotti pasta – use store-bought shells for easy assembly or make your own for a special touch.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – packed with nutrients, fresh spinach adds a beautiful pop of color and flavor.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese – creamy ricotta is essential for that perfect filling, creating a rich texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sprinkle in some Parmesan for a nutty depth that enhances the filling perfectly.
- 1 large egg – helps bind the filling together for a delightful texture.
- Salt and pepper – season to taste, enhancing the flavors of the spinach and ricotta.
For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce – opt for homemade or your favorite store-bought variety to elevate the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adding this herb gives a warm aroma and enhances the comfort of this classic meal.
This Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara is sure to become a beloved favorite at your table!
How to Make Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your manicotti bakes evenly and beautifully bubbles with cheese and sauce.
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Cook the manicotti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and make handling easier.
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Sauté the fresh spinach in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, just until wilted. Let it cool slightly before adding to the filling mixture.
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Mix the filling by combining ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, with all ingredients well incorporated.
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Fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for easy filling—just be careful not to overstuff!
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Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Lay the filled manicotti on top in a single layer, then pour the remaining sauce over the top.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the sauce. Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan cheese before serving for that beautiful finishing touch.
Optional: Top with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti
Fridge: Keep leftover Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked manicotti in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating: To reheat baked manicotti, cover with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring it’s heated evenly.
Wrap: If storing individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use freezer-safe bags to protect from freezer burn.
What to Serve with Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara?
A delightful meal deserves equally delightful accompaniments that enhance each bite and bring warmth to your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate side, perfect for scooping up that rich marinara sauce.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds crunch and a zesty bite, balancing the creaminess of the manicotti beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: An assortment of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a lovely contrast in texture and bursts of flavor, making every plate visually appealing.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites bring out the savory notes in the dish while offering a satisfying crunch that complements the soft manicotti.
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Italian Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied Italian red wine harmonizes with the marinara sauce, elevating the meal into a celebratory affair.
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Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu; its coffee flavor and creamy texture contrast perfectly with the savory hand-rolled pasta.
Each of these pairings contributes to a well-rounded dining experience that transforms a simple dinner into a memorable feast.
Spinach & Ricotta Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists and substitutions for your Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti that will delight your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free manicotti or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
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Cheese Blend: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a unique flavor profile that enhances creaminess.
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Vegan: Use tofu-based ricotta and a flax egg to create a vegan-friendly version without compromising on taste.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill into the filling for a fresh, aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce to bring a delightful heat that balances the creaminess.
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Protein Boost: Mix in cooked ground turkey or sausage with the filling for added protein that keeps you feeling full longer.
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Roasted Veggies: Toss in some roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for a burst of flavor and added nutrients.
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Nutty Twist: Sprinkle some pine nuts or walnuts over the top before baking; they add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor to your dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara are a fantastic choice for meal prepping! You can prepare the filling (ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the filled manicotti and cover them with marinara sauce up to 24 hours ahead of baking. Store the dish tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time, for that delicious, creamy goodness with minimal effort. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade meals without feeling rushed!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always check the pasta package for al dente cooking instructions to ensure the manicotti holds up during baking.
- When sautéing the spinach, make sure to stir frequently to prevent it from burning and to achieve even wilting.
- For an additional layer of flavor, consider adding crushed garlic to the spinach while cooking.
- Bake the manicotti covered with foil to maintain moisture, then uncover it towards the end to allow for a nice golden finish.
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh spinach?
Look for spinach that has vibrant, crisp leaves and no wilting or yellowing. Avoid any bunches that have dark spots all over, as those could be signs of spoilage. If you can, buy organic or locally sourced spinach for the best flavor!
What’s the best way to store leftover manicotti?
Store any leftover Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, reheat it carefully in the oven or microwave until steaming hot.
Can I freeze Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti?
Absolutely! For freezing, I recommend assembling the manicotti but not baking them. Place the unbaked manicotti in a sealed container or wrap them tightly in foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bake as per the instructions.
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If your ricotta filling seems runny, try adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to thicken it up. You could also let the filling sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up before using it to fill the manicotti shells—working like a charm!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
This dish contains dairy, specifically ricotta and Parmesan cheese, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using a dairy-free ricotta substitute, which is widely available in stores. Always check the labels for other allergens just to be safe!
Can I make Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the entire dish in advance and store it in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be mindful to keep the marinara sauce layer on top to prevent the pasta from drying out. When ready to bake, simply increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
Spinach & Ricotta Manicotti with Marinara
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the manicotti pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Sauté the fresh spinach in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Mix the filling by combining ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Lay the filled manicotti on top in a single layer, then pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
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