The Ultimate Guide to the Best Spinach Manicotti Recipe: A Delicious Italian Classic

#### Best Spinach Manicotti RecipeIf you're on the hunt for the **best spinach manicotti recipe**, look no further! This delightful Italian dish is not only……

#### Best Spinach Manicotti Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the **best spinach manicotti recipe**, look no further! This delightful Italian dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Manicotti, which means "little sleeves" in Italian, refers to the large pasta tubes that are perfect for stuffing with delicious fillings. In this recipe, we’ll focus on a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, smothered in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress.

#### Ingredients

To make the **best spinach manicotti recipe**, you will need the following ingredients:

- **Manicotti pasta**: 12 tubes

- **Fresh spinach**: 10 ounces (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)

- **Ricotta cheese**: 15 ounces

- **Mozzarella cheese**: 2 cups (shredded, divided)

- **Parmesan cheese**: 1/2 cup (grated)

- **Egg**: 1 large

- **Garlic**: 2 cloves (minced)

- **Marinara sauce**: 4 cups (store-bought or homemade)

- **Olive oil**: 1 tablespoon

- **Salt and pepper**: to taste

- **Italian seasoning**: 1 teaspoon (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your manicotti will bake evenly.

2. **Cook the Manicotti**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the manicotti tubes and cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until they are al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

3. **Prepare the Filling**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly drained before adding it to the skillet. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

4. **Mix the Filling**: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Mix until well combined.

5. **Stuff the Manicotti**: Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti tube with the spinach and cheese mixture. Be generous, but avoid overfilling.

6. **Assemble the Dish**: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the stuffed manicotti on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

7. **Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

8. **Serve**: Allow the manicotti to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

#### Conclusion

This **best spinach manicotti recipe** is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tangy marinara sauce makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious and hearty dish!