why make this recipe
Make-Ahead Manicotti is a fantastic dish for busy families and meal prep enthusiasts. It allows you to prepare a delicious and comforting meal in advance, so you can enjoy it even on hectic days. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and rich spaghetti sauce creates a flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get some veggies into your meal!
how to make Make-Ahead Manicotti
Ingredients :
1 pint ricotta cheese
2 large eggs
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1.5 tablespoons white sugar
0.125 teaspoon salt
0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 manicotti shells
1 (32 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
Directions :
Mix ricotta cheese and eggs together in a medium bowl until blended. Stir in spinach, mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stuff mixture into uncooked pasta shells.
Pour 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce into a medium baking dish; spread to cover the bottom. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer over sauce. Pour remaining sauce over shells. Cover and chill in the refrigerator, 8 hours to overnight.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Remove shells from the refrigerator.
Bake, covered, in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese, and bake for 15 more minutes.
how to serve Make-Ahead Manicotti
Serve the Make-Ahead Manicotti hot from the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can add a lovely touch.
how to store Make-Ahead Manicotti
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the unbaked manicotti for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
tips to make Make-Ahead Manicotti
- Make sure to drain the spinach well so that your filling doesn’t become watery.
- You can use different types of cheese if you prefer, like cottage cheese or different mozzarella blends.
- If you want a little spice, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or filling for added flavor.
variation
You can easily change the filling by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. For a meat version, ground beef or turkey can be mixed into the ricotta filling.
FAQs
Can I make Make-Ahead Manicotti a day in advance?
Yes, this is one of the best parts! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking.
Can I freeze the manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze it unbaked. Just cover it well and bake directly from frozen—adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
What can I serve with Make-Ahead Manicotti?
It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.