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.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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.
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.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
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.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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.
Pour the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed manicotti shells.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese for topping over the marinara sauce.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the manicotti rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Calories |
4103 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 145.1 g | 186% | |
| Saturated Fat | 71.3 g | 356% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 610 mg | 203% | |
| Sodium | 7990 mg | 347% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 511.0 g | 186% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 41.8 g | 149% | |
| Total Sugars | 94.1 g | ||
| Protein | 217.7 g | 435% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.8 mcg | 14% | |
| Calcium | 3964 mg | 305% | |
| Iron | 25.9 mg | 144% | |
| Potassium | 7528 mg | 160% | |
*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.