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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, indulgent embrace of manicotti. This beloved Italian pasta dish, characterized by its large tubular shapes, has a way of bringing people together around the dining table, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. The Creamy Spinach & Cheese Manicotti Delight takes this classic comfort food to the next level with its rich, creamy texture and robust flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

Spinach and Cheese Manicotti

Discover the comforting flavors of Creamy Spinach & Cheese Manicotti Delight, a delightful Italian dish perfect for family gatherings. This recipe features tender manicotti shells stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach, all topped with a rich marinara sauce. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers nutritional benefits thanks to the spinach and cheese. Enjoy this warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table!
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Ingredients
  

12 manicotti shells

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Manicotti: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the manicotti shells and cook them for about 6-7 minutes, or until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them aside on a baking sheet to keep them from sticking together.

      Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of the mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

        Stuff the Manicotti: Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each manicotti shell with the cheese and spinach mixture. Don’t overfill to prevent bursting.

          Assemble: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed manicotti in the dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the manicotti, covering them well.

            Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce.

              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.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 55 minutes | 4 servings