Homemade Spinach Manicotti

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than Homemade Spinach Manicotti. This classic Italian-American recipe features delicate crepes filled with a creamy spinach and cheese mixture, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your dining table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty weeknight meal, this homemade manicotti is the perfect choice.

Top Reasons to Make Homemade Spinach Manicotti

Homemade Spinach Manicotti is a favorite for many reasons. Here are some top reasons to whip up this delightful dish:

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and spinach makes for a rich, flavorful filling that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the manicotti in advance, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to the filling to make it your own!
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers of cheese and sauce make for a stunning dish that’s sure to wow your guests.

Gather These Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:

• 16 homemade crepes: These are the foundation of your manicotti, providing a light and tender wrap for the filling.
• 15 oz part-skim ricotta cheese: I recommend Polly-O for its creamy texture and great flavor.
• 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese: Reserve ½ cup for topping the dish before baking.
• 1 large egg: This helps bind the filling together.
• 10 oz package frozen spinach: Make sure it’s thawed and squeezed well to remove excess moisture.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan Reggiano: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the filling.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Black pepper: To taste, for a touch of spice.
• 2 ½ cups jarred marinara or homemade marinara sauce: A delicious sauce to bring everything together.

Equipment & Tools

To make this Homemade Spinach Manicotti, you’ll need a few essential tools. Here’s what to gather:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your filling ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix the egg and cheese filling smoothly.
• Spatula: For filling the crepes and spreading the sauce.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Oven: To bake and meld the flavors together.

From Start to Finish: Homemade Spinach Manicotti

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delightful dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Crepes

Start by preparing your homemade crepes. If you’re using store-bought, you can skip this step. For homemade crepes, combine flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt in a blender and blend until smooth. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and pour in a ladleful of batter. Cook until the edges lift, then flip and cook for an additional minute. Repeat until all the batter is used.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups of the mozzarella cheese, the egg, thawed spinach (squeezed dry), Parmesan Reggiano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Manicotti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Take a crepe and fill it with a generous spoonful of the spinach and cheese mixture. Roll it up and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all crepes are filled and arranged in the dish.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all the crepes are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top for a deliciously gooey finish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Homemade Spinach Manicotti can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to make the crepes.
• Vegan: Substitute ricotta with a vegan alternative and use a flax egg instead of the chicken egg.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese options for the filling and topping.
• Low-Carb: Replace the crepes with zucchini slices or eggplant for a low-carb version.

Don’t Do This

To ensure the best results with your Homemade Spinach Manicotti, steer clear of the following mistakes:

• Don’t rush the crepe-making process; allow the batter to rest for optimal texture.
• Don’t overfill the crepes, as this can lead to a messy assembly and potential bursting in the oven.
• Don’t skip the step of squeezing out excess moisture from the spinach, as this can make the filling watery.
• Don’t forget to cover the dish while baking initially; this helps the manicotti cook evenly without drying out.

Prep Ahead & Store

Making Homemade Spinach Manicotti doesn’t have to be a last-minute decision. Here’s how you can prep ahead and store:

• You can prepare the crepes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic wrap.
• The filling can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
• Assemble the manicotti and cover it, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time if baking from cold.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Ask & Learn

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used; just sauté it until wilted and then squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

How do I know when the manicotti is done baking?

The manicotti is ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.

Can I use a different sauce than marinara?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta sauce you prefer, such as Alfredo or pesto, to create different flavor profiles.

What can I serve with Homemade Spinach Manicotti?

Pair it with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

You Might Also Like

• Creamy Pesto Pasta
• Easy Lasagna
• Vegetable Stuffed Shells
• Baked Ziti

The Last Word

Homemade Spinach Manicotti is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings people together. The combination of creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and flavorful marinara creates a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the wonderful experience of creating and sharing this delicious homemade meal. Your taste buds will thank you!