Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Manicotti


I tend to look for quick and easy recipes but when I want to make something special, I think about stuffed manicotti. While this manicotti recipe does require a bit more time, it's worth the effort because it taste amazing!

This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for preparing in advance for those hectic days.

INGREDIENTS
  • 1 box (usually 12 shells) manicotti shells
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 c spinach, thawed & squeezed dry
  • 1 egg
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 23oz marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, for topping

DIRECTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook the manicotti according to package directions and rinse in cold water.
  2. In a medium-sized bowl combine ricotta, mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, spinach, egg, and salt & pepper.
  3. Stuff the shells with the cheese mixture. I find that using a ziploc bag works great.
  4. In a 9×13 inch, pan add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the bottom. Line the manicotti in an even layer. Cover with remaining sauce and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly