Creamy Savory Manicotti

Ingredients

• 12 manicotti shells
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Carefully add the manicotti shells and cook for 6-8 minutes or until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
4. Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each manicotti shell with the cheese mixture.
5. In a saucepan over low heat, mix marinara sauce with heavy cream and red pepper flakes until heated through.
6. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange st￭ manicotti in a single layer and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
7. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.

Nutrition