Manicotti Stuffed with Smoked Mozzarella Spinach and Dried Tom

Transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering recipe for Manicotti Stuffed with Smoked Mozzarella, Spinach, and Dried Tomatoes. Tender manicotti shells are filled with a creamy blend of smoked mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, perfectly balanced by the earthy flavor of sautéed fresh spinach and the burst of sweetness from finely chopped dried tomatoes. Layered with rich marinara sauce and topped with golden, melted mozzarella, this baked pasta dish is as indulgent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or craving a weeknight comfort meal, this recipe offers the perfect combination of smoky, savory, and cheesy goodness. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh basil for an aromatic, elegant finish! Ready in just over an hour, it’s your new go-to for a showstopping Italian-inspired meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 pieces Manicotti shells
• 1.5 cups Smoked mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Ricotta cheese
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cups Fresh spinach, chopped
• 0.75 cup Dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 large Egg
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 3 cups Marinara sauce
• 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the manicotti shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water, then set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, smoked mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried tomatoes, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the filling is evenly incorporated.

Step 6

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 7

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each manicotti shell with the prepared filling. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the marinara sauce in the baking dish.

Step 8

Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti shells.

Step 9

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese for topping over the marinara sauce.

Step 10

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 11

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 13

Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2243.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4103.1

Total Fat 145.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 71.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.3g
Cholesterol 610.3mg	0%
Sodium 7990.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 511.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 41.8g	0%
Total Sugars 94.1g
Protein 217.7g	0%

Vitamin D 113.8IU	0%
Calcium 3964.2mg	0%
Iron 25.9mg	0%
Potassium 7527.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.9%

Protein: 20.6%

Carbs: 48.4%