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featured image with easy baked manicotti scooped up in a spatula topped with cheese

Easy Baked Manicotti Recipe with Cheese


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5 from 1 review

Description

Tender manicotti stuffed with seasoned ricotta and basil topped with delicious marinara and loads of cheese! This easy baked manicotti recipe is the perfect Italian-inspired family dinner that’s comforting, hearty, and cozy.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Tools Needed

Ingredients

  • 56 oz manicotti pasta (about 10 pieces)
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese (1 pint) – I used whole milk
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup spinach, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 16 oz (2 Cups) marinara sauce, spaghetti sauce, or homemade sauce, divided

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped parsley
  • Basil on the side


Instructions

  1. Cook manicotti according to package instructions, undercooking a bit to make manicotti easier to stuff. Cook uncovered, about 7 minutes. Drain pasta and rinse with cold water.
  2. Coat a medium baking sheet with cooking spray. Place manicotti in an even layer on the sheet, not touching to avoid sticking.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  4. Combine ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, ¼ cup parmesan, spinach, basil, seasonings, and egg in a large mixing bowl. Mix until thoroughly combined.
  5. In a 9×13-inch baking pan, pour 1 cup marinara sauce and smooth into an even layer. Spoon or pipe the cheese mixture into each manicotti, filling it completely. Place stuffed manicotti neatly in a single layer in the pan.
  6. Top with remaining 1 cup marinara, mozzarella, and parmesan. Bake until bubbly, about 30-40 minutes. Mine took 30 minutes.

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Notes

Storing Instructions: Cool completely, cover, and store in the refrigerator for 1-3 days.

Freezing Instructions: Cool and store in an airtight freezer-friendly container for 1-3 months. See post for instructions on freezing uncooked manicotti.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: Italian