Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti

Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 manicotti shells; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti for a family dinner or special occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and rich marinara sauce always leaves everyone asking for seconds. Each bite is filled with flavor, and the preparation is surprisingly simple. I like to make it ahead of time so that the flavors have a chance to meld together. It's a dish that brings warmth and joy to our table, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:58:11.267Z

Making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is a tradition for me, especially during family gatherings. My secret lies in using fresh spinach, which not only adds a vibrant color but also enhances the nutritional value of the dish. I also make sure to season the ricotta filling generously—it really makes a difference in flavor.

One tip I've learned is to let the assembled manicotti rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors from the sauce, resulting in a more cohesive dish. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta and fresh spinach create a delightful filling
Perfect balance of flavors with marinara sauce
A comforting dish that feels like a warm hug

      

Mastering the Manicotti Shell

Cooking the manicotti shells requires careful attention to prevent them from tearing. Boil the shells in a large pot of salted water for exactly 8 minutes—this timing ensures they remain firm enough to hold the filling without becoming overly soft. If the shells start to stick together, a gentle stir in the boiling water can help. After draining, let them cool slightly; this makes handling much easier when it's time to stuff them.

When it comes to filling the manicotti, a piping bag is the most efficient tool, as it allows you to fill each shell evenly without mess. If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off works just as well. It's important not to over-stuff; aim for just enough filling to create a slight bulge in the shell without it overflowing.

Perfecting the Sauce Harmony

The sauce is where you can really elevate the flavor of your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti. By mixing dried oregano and basil directly into the marinara sauce, you infuse it with a fresh herbaceous note that complements the richness of the cheese filling. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute them; just remember that fresh herbs should be used in larger quantities since they're less concentrated than dried.

For those who enjoy a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will give your dish a pleasant warmth without overpowering the creamy filling. Also, be sure to taste the sauce before using it; if it’s too acidic, a teaspoon of sugar can help balance the flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to get started on this delicious meal.

For the Manicotti

12 manicotti shells
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

3 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil

Once you have everything ready, you can start assembling your manicotti!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed manicotti.

Cook the Manicotti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for about 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Stuff the Manicotti

Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture. Set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce with oregano and basil. Spread half of the sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.

Assemble and Bake

Place the stuffed manicotti in the baking dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh basil on top before serving. You can also use store-bought spinach and cheese filling if short on time.

Make-Ahead Options

One of the best features of this dish is that it can be made ahead of time. After assembling the manicotti in the baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you're planning to freeze it, I recommend partially baking it (about 15-20 minutes), then letting it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. When ready to serve, bake from frozen, allowing an additional 20-30 minutes.

If you assemble the dish in advance and find your schedule shifting, it’s perfectly fine to bake it right after filling the shells, or even to let it rest for a few hours at room temperature. However, avoid leaving it out for more than two hours for food safety reasons.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti can be as elegant or casual as you like. I recommend pairing it with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese. A light vinaigrette with a hint of lemon will brighten the meal beautifully and cleanse the palate between bites.

For a complete dinner experience, warm garlic bread alongside the manicotti compliments the dish perfectly. You can even garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving to add visual flair and an extra layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the manicotti ahead of time?

Yes! You can stuff the shells and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just ensure you select gluten-free manicotti shells for a gluten-free version of this dish.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed manicotti?

Yes, you can freeze assembled manicotti before baking. Just remember to adjust cooking time when baking from frozen.

→ What can I serve with manicotti?

Garlic bread and a side salad complement this dish wonderfully!