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Homemade The Best Manicotti EVER! recipe image

The Best Manicotti EVER!

This Manicotti is a cheesy delight! Creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella wrapped in tender pasta, topped with zesty marinara!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Manicotti:
  • 10 pieces manicotti tubes
  • 16 ounces ricotta cheese creamy and rich
  • 3 cups mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup spinach chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 large egg helps bind the filling
  • 1 jar marinara sauce 16 ounces

Equipment

  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spoon or piping bag
  • Oven mitts
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, and the egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti tube with the cheese mixture.
  4. Step 4: Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  6. Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the filling.
  • Manicotti can be frozen before baking; cover tightly and thaw overnight before baking.
  • Let the manicotti rest for a few minutes before serving to help the filling set.