Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti

Name: Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 12 manicotti pasta tubes; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 egg, beaten; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 2 cups marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti because it brings together the delightful flavors of fresh spinach and creamy ricotta in a comforting pasta dish. Whenever I serve this at gatherings, it’s met with smiles and empty plates. The best part about this recipe is how easily it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this manicotti is sure to impress with its rich flavor and satisfying texture.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T10:52:11.496Z

When I first tried making Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti, I was a bit intimidated by the idea of stuffing the pasta. But it turns out, it’s easier than it looks! I remember using a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the filling into the manicotti, which made the process quick and clean. Every bite was a burst of creamy goodness combined with the freshness of spinach, and that’s exactly what makes this dish unforgettable.

One tip I always implement is to slightly undercook the pasta before stuffing; this prevents the manicotti from breaking and creates the perfect texture once baked. The baking process allows the flavors to infuse beautifully, and I love topping it with a homemade marinara sauce for an added depth of flavor. It’s an absolute winner in my book!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta with a hint of nutmeg for an aromatic experience
Fresh spinach that adds a vibrant color and healthy boost
Easily customizable with your favorite marinara sauce

      

Perfecting Your Manicotti

Getting the texture right for your manicotti is essential for a satisfying bite. When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente, which means it should still have a slight firmness when you bite into it. This helps prevent the tubes from falling apart while you stuff them. Make sure to cool the cooked pasta slightly before filling to avoid burning your hands. A cooling period of about 5-10 minutes works well.

When it comes to the filling, the mozzarella plays a key role in achieving that gooey texture that melds beautifully with the ricotta. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute the mozzarella with a blend of other cheeses such as provolone or fontina, but keep in mind that it may change the overall flavor. Make sure to thoroughly mix the filling until it's glossy and well-combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors and prevents any dry clumps.

Assembling and Baking

Filling the manicotti can be a bit tricky, but I recommend using a zip-top bag for an easy and neat process. Simply cut a corner of the bag to create a makeshift piping bag, allowing you to stuff the tubes with minimal mess. As you fill them, be careful not to overstuff, which can cause them to split during baking. Aim for a filling that is just slightly heaping out at the top for that perfect look.

When it comes time to bake, covering the dish with foil prevents the top from browning too quickly while ensuring that the filling cooks through. Bake for the full thirty minutes covered, and then remove the foil to let the top get beautifully golden and bubbly. If you prefer an extra crispy top, consider putting the dish under the broiler for a couple of minutes after baking to reach your desired level of golden perfection.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to prepare this delicious Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti:

Ingredients

12 manicotti pasta tubes
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 cups marinara sauce

Ensure you have fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture in your manicotti.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti:

Prepare the pasta

Cook the manicotti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the filling

In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until fully combined.

Stuff the manicotti

Using a zip-top bag, fill the manicotti tubes with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Place them in a baking dish.

Add the sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed manicotti, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Once baked, let the manicotti rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sauté the spinach with garlic before mixing it with the cheese filling. Also, feel free to add other vegetables or meats to the filling to suit your taste!

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti is its make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare the manicotti the day before and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble everything up to the baking step, cover with foil, and keep it chilled. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as the chilled manicotti will need a bit longer to heat through thoroughly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked manicotti. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. This is a fantastic way to have a delicious meal ready to go on a busy weeknight!

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with your stuffed manicotti by incorporating additional ingredients. Consider adding cooked mushrooms, zucchini, or sundried tomatoes to the filling for an extra burst of flavor and texture. These additions not only enhance the dish but also contribute nutritional benefits. If you're catering to dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the ricotta for a dairy-free cheese alternative, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.

You can also experiment with different sauces. While marinara is a classic choice, switching it up with a creamy Alfredo sauce or a homemade pesto can elevate the experience. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on the sauce used, so keep an eye on the manicotti as they bake. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that's sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute, though the flavor may differ slightly.

→ Can I freeze stuffed manicotti?

Yes! Assemble the manicotti and freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you bake from frozen.

→ How do I prevent the manicotti from breaking?

Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente and handle them gently when stuffing and transferring to the baking dish.