Best 12 Spinach Manicotti With Ham Recipes

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# Spinach Manicotti with Ham: A Delightful Italian Dish

Spinach manicotti with ham is a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of tender spinach, savory ham, and a creamy cheese filling, all wrapped in delicate pasta shells. This delectable dish is often served as a main course, accompanied by a side of pasta sauce or marinara. In this comprehensive guide, we present two variations of spinach manicotti recipes:

1. **Traditional Spinach Manicotti with Ham:**

This classic recipe features a homemade spinach filling made from fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and seasonings. The filling is then spooned into large manicotti pasta shells, which are then baked in a creamy tomato sauce until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbling and flavorful.

2. **Creamy Spinach Manicotti with Ham and Cheese:**

This variation features a creamy and flavorful filling made from a combination of spinach, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. The filling is spooned into manicotti shells and topped with a creamy Alfredo sauce, creating a rich and indulgent dish that is sure to satisfy any palate.

Both variations of spinach manicotti are perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. They can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a convenient and delicious option for busy home cooks. Whether you prefer the traditional tomato-based sauce or the creamy Alfredo sauce, these spinach manicotti recipes are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

SPINACH CHICKEN MANICOTTI



Spinach Chicken Manicotti image

Pepper and nutmeg spice up the rich sauce in this hearty pasta dish. I made this for my boyfriend on our first Valentine's Day. It was a big success-now we're married! -Amy Luce, Dallas, Texas

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 1h35m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 21

1 large onion, chopped
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
2-1/2 cups diced cooked chicken breast
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
3/4 cup diced fully cooked lean ham
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dash ground nutmeg
12 uncooked manicotti shells
SAUCE:
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 cup fat-free milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dash cayenne pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

  • In a small skillet, saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic, cook 1 minute longer. In a large bowl, combine the onion mixture, chicken, spinach, ham, cheese, egg whites, basil, pepper and nutmeg; set aside. , Cook manicotti shells according to package directions. Meanwhile, for sauce, combine flour and broth in a large saucepan until smooth; gradually stir in the milk, salt, nutmeg, pepper and cayenne. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Spoon 1 cup into chicken mixture. Add cheese to remaining sauce. , Spread 1 cup sauce into a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Drain shells; stuff with chicken mixture. Arrange over sauce. Drizzle with remaining sauce. Cover and bake at 375° for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 372 calories, Fat 7g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 58mg cholesterol, Sodium 866mg sodium, Carbohydrate 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

MANICOTTI



Manicotti image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h15m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 17

1 pound fresh spinach, tough stems removed, or a 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
12 manicotti shells
3 cups Marinara Sauce, recipe follows
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (about 1 pound)
1 cup shredded mozzarella (about 4 ounces)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a mixture of half Pecorino and Parmesan
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
2 teaspoons unsalted butter, diced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 medium onion, diced (about 3 tablespoons)
3 cloves garlic, chopped
One 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes with their juices (3 1/2 cups), roughly chopped
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 sprig fresh basil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  • If using fresh spinach, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat, and season generously with salt. Fill a medium bowl with ice water and season with salt. Boil the spinach until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon, (keep the water in the pot boiling), and immediately plunge the spinach into the ice water. Drain and squeeze the excess water from the spinach, and finely chop. Alternatively, if using thawed spinach, simply squeeze, and finely chop. Set aside.
  • In the same large pot of boiling water, cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and pat dry.
  • Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Lightly beat the eggs in a medium bowl. Add the spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, and 1/3 cup of the grated cheese and mix until evenly combined. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, the nutmeg and pepper. Spoon the cheese mixture into the manicotti shells and line them up in the baking dish. Cover with the remaining 2 cups sauce. Scatter the remaining 2/3 cup grated cheese on top and dot with the butter.
  • Bake for 30 minutes. Serve immediately.
  • Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes and the herb sprigs and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 10 minutes.
  • Remove and discard the herb sprigs. Stir in 2 teaspoons salt and season with pepper to taste. Use right away, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Yield: 3 1/2 cups
  • Copyright 2001 Television Food Network, G.P. All rights reserved.

CRAB AND SPINACH STUFFED MANICOTTI



Crab and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti image

Perk up their palates with a plucky pasta, Crab and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti. Resplendent and surprisingly easy to prepare, Crab and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti is a great dish to liven up an evening.

Provided by My Food and Family

Categories     Festive 2019

Time 1h10m

Yield 12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

12 manicotti shells, uncooked
5 Tbsp. butter, divided
1 small onion, chopped
1 pkg. (5 oz.) baby spinach leaves
1 Tbsp. minced garlic
1/4 cup flour
3 cups milk
1/4 tsp. each ground nutmeg and white pepper
1 pkg. (6 oz.) KRAFT Shredded Parmesan Cheese, divided
1 cup POLLY-O Natural Part Skim Ricotta Cheese
2 cans (6 oz. each) crabmeat, drained, flaked

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 375°F.
  • Cook pasta as directed on package, omitting salt.
  • Meanwhile, melt 1 Tbsp. butter in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add onions; cook 5 to 6 min. or until crisp-tender, stirring frequently. Add spinach and garlic; cook and stir 1 to 2 min. or just until spinach is wilted. Spoon spinach mixture into medium bowl.
  • Melt remaining butter in same skillet. Stir in flour; cook 2 min., stirring constantly. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly after each addition. Bring to boil, whisking constantly; cook and stir 5 min. or until thickened. Remove skillet from heat. Add nutmeg, pepper and 1/2 cup Parmesan to white sauce; mix well.
  • Add ricotta to spinach mixture along with 1 cup of the cheese sauce and 1/2 cup of the remaining Parmesan; mix lightly. Stir in crabmeat. Spoon into resealable plastic bag.
  • Drain pasta; rinse with cold water. Cut small piece off one bottom corner of filled plastic bag; use to squeeze enough crab mixture into both sides of pasta shells until shells are evenly filled with crab mixture. Place in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray; top with remaining cheese sauce, then remaining Parmesan.
  • Bake 30 to 35 min. or until heated through.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 400, Fat 13 g, SaturatedFat 7 g, TransFat 0 g, Cholesterol 55 mg, Sodium 370 mg, Carbohydrate 0 g, Fiber 3 g, Sugar 0 g, Protein 20 g

SPINACH MANICOTTI



Spinach Manicotti image

Stuffed with ricotta cheese and spinach, this Italian-style entree is flavorful and filling. I particularly like this meatless dish because I don't have to cook the pasta before assembling. -Mary Steiner of West Bend, Wisconsin

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 1h30m

Yield 7 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 carton (15 ounces) fat-free ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups tomato juice
1 cup chunky salsa
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
14 uncooked manicotti shells

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, 1-1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, spinach, sour cream, bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder. , Combine the tomato juice, salsa and crushed tomatoes; spread 1 cup sauce in an ungreased 13x9-in. baking dish. Stuff uncooked manicotti with spinach mixture; arrange over sauce. Pour remaining sauce over manicotti., Cover and bake at 350° for 55 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake 15 minutes longer or until noodles are tender.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 345 calories, Fat 8g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 34mg cholesterol, Sodium 782mg sodium, Carbohydrate 45g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

MAKE-AHEAD SPINACH MANICOTTI



Make-Ahead Spinach Manicotti image

When I invite people to dinner, many have started requesting this pasta bake ahead of time because it's that good. Plus, the manicotti is stuffed before it's cooked, making it even more convenient. -Christy Freeman, Central Point, Oregon

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 1h

Yield 7 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 carton (15 ounces) whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1-1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
3 jars (24 ounces each) spaghetti sauce
1 cup water
1 package (8 ounces) manicotti shells

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley and seasonings. In another large bowl, mix spaghetti sauce and water; spread 1 cup into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish., Fill uncooked manicotti shells with ricotta mixture; arrange over sauce. Pour remaining spaghetti sauce mixture over top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Refrigerate, covered, overnight., Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, uncovered, 40-50 minutes or until manicotti is tender. Freeze option: Cover and freeze unbaked casserole. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary to heat through and for a thermometer inserted in center to read 165°.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 363 calories, Fat 16g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 68mg cholesterol, Sodium 822mg sodium, Carbohydrate 35g carbohydrate (11g sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 22g protein.

SPINACH CHEESE MANICOTTI



Spinach Cheese Manicotti image

The creamy cheese filling in these yummy stuffed shells has a pretty flecks of spinach. Margaret Truxton, Pinehurst, North Carolina

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 50m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon canola oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
8 manicotti shells, cooked and drained
1 jar (26 ounces) spaghetti sauce

Steps:

  • In a small skillet, saute onion in oil for 3 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Set aside. , In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, 4 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning and pepper; beat until smooth. Stir in onion mixture and spinach. Stuff into the manicotti shells., Pour half of the spaghetti sauce into a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. Arrange shells over sauce; top with remaining sauce., Cover and bake at 350° for 25 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake 5-10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 682 calories, Fat 38g fat (19g saturated fat), Cholesterol 101mg cholesterol, Sodium 1418mg sodium, Carbohydrate 56g carbohydrate (21g sugars, Fiber 7g fiber), Protein 33g protein.

CREAMY CHICKEN / SPINACH & HAM MANICOTTI



Creamy Chicken / Spinach & Ham Manicotti image

Another family favorite...Delicious!! My photos

Provided by Cassie *

Categories     Pasta

Time 1h10m

Number Of Ingredients 26

12 manicotti shells, cooked according to package - drain
FILLING
1 onion, chopped
2 clove garlic, minced
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 c small diced, cooked chicken
3/4 c small diced, cooked ham
1/2 c ricotta cheese
2 oz cream cheese, softened
10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and water squeezed out , thoroughly
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 c grated, parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg
SAUCE
3 c chicken broth
3/4 c flour
1/2 c heavy cream
1/2 c milk
1 tsp salt or to taste
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 c grated parmesan cheese and extra for sprinkling on top
paprika for sprinkling on top

Steps:

  • 1. Cook manicotti shells according to package directions.
  • 2. In a small skillet, saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic, cook 1 minute longer. In a small skillet, saute onion in oil until tender. Add garlic, cook 1 minute longer. In a large bowl, combine the onion mixture, chicken, spinach, ham, cheese, eggs,ricotta, cream cheese basil, pepper, salt and nutmeg; set aside.
  • 3. Sauce: Combine flour and chicken broth in a large saucepan until smooth; gradually stir in the milk, salt, nutmeg, pepper and cayenne. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat, and stir in the 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
  • 4. Spread 1 1/2 cups sauce into a 13 x 9 baking dish coated with cooking spray.
  • 5. Stuff each pasta with chicken filling. ( An easier way to stuff is cut one edge lengthwise, open up and lay out flat. Spoon on filling, roll up and place seam side down in dish.) Sometimes I drizzle a tablespoon of cream sauce down the center before rolling. Don't worry of filling comes out the ends when placing in the dish, you can stuff it back in once placed.
  • 6. Once all are stuffed and placed side by side in dish. Cover with sauce and sprinkle with desired amount of Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with paprika.
  • 7. Cover with foil, and place in preheated oven, for 30 - 35 minutes, until heated through and bubbly. Remove foil and continue baking for another 5 minutes to slightly brown top. If you have sauce left, save it for reheating leftovers.
  • 8. Enjoy!

SPINACH CHEESE MANICOTTI



Spinach Cheese Manicotti image

My husband says this dish is restaurant quality. It can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator overnight. Very filling and great served with a salad and garlic bread.

Provided by Ernie

Categories     World Cuisine Recipes     European     Italian

Time 1h5m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
½ cup minced onion
1 egg
2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
½ teaspoon pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
1 ½ cups water
1 (8 ounce) package manicotti shells

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • In a large bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, onion and egg. Season with parsley, pepper and garlic powder. Mix in 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan. In a separate bowl, stir together spaghetti sauce and water.
  • Spread 1 cup sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Stuff uncooked manicotti shells with ricotta mixture, and arrange in a single layer in the dish. Cover with remaining sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes, or until noodles are soft.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 576.1 calories, Carbohydrate 69 g, Cholesterol 81.8 mg, Fat 20.5 g, Fiber 9.2 g, Protein 29.8 g, SaturatedFat 9.7 g, Sodium 1409.9 mg, Sugar 24.4 g

SPINACH MANICOTTI WITH LEMON



Spinach Manicotti with Lemon image

Provided by Alex Guarnaschelli

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h40m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

2 cups ricotta
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
12 dried lasagna sheets or 12 fresh pasta sheets
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
One 5-ounce package baby spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
1 cup finely grated Pecorino-Romano, plus more for serving
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Grated zest (with some pith) of 1 large lemon plus juice of 1/2 lemon
Leaves from 8 sprigs fresh tarragon, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

Steps:

  • Place the ricotta in a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl. Loosely cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the ricotta for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Position a rack in the center of the oven.
  • Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna sheets and stir with a large slotted spoon to ensure that the pasta does not stick as it cooks. Cook until still quite firm, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the pasta and transfer to a large bowl (you'll use the empty pot later). Gently toss with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to coat. (This is more pasta than you will need, but the extra noodles are backups for any that might break.)
  • In a large saute pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. When the oil begins to smoke lightly, add the spinach, then sprinkle with salt and cook, stirring, just long enough to wilt, 30 to 45 seconds. Quickly remove the pan from the heat and transfer the spinach to a kitchen towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
  • Return the medium pot to medium heat, then add the cream and garlic and bring to a gentle simmer, 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the Worcestershire, hot sauce and 1/2 cup pecorino. Spoon enough of the sauce to lightly coat the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, spread the ricotta out on the bottom and up the sides of the bowl (so the seasoning coats most of the cheese). Add the egg and sprinkle with salt. Mix to combine. Add pepper, the lemon zest, lemon juice, tarragon and the remaining 1/2 cup pecorino. Mix to combine. Add the sauteed spinach, reserving some for garnish. Add the allspice and combine thoroughly.
  • Arrange the lasagna sheets on a clean, flat surface with the longer sides of the rectangles facing you. Place about 3 tablespoons ricotta on the edge of the sheet closest to you, leaving a little room on either end. Gently roll the pasta up into a tube away from you and place inside the prepared baking dish, seam-side down. Repeat with the remaining pasta and filling, taking care that the manicotti are snug in the baking dish.
  • Cover the manicotti with about three-quarters of the sauce. (Keep the remaining sauce warm.) Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and bake until lightly browned and the filling is hot in the center when pierced with the tip of a knife, 15 to 20 minutes. Warm the remaining sauce and spoon it over the manicotti. Sprinkle the top with the reserved spinach and freshly grated Pecorino-Romano. Serve warm.

SPINACH MANICOTTI



Spinach Manicotti image

Surprise! Less than 10 ingredients and just 15 minutes prep is all you need to whip up this Italian pasta dish. Follow the do-ahead tip and you'll have a doable weeknight dinner.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Entree

Time 50m

Yield 7

Number Of Ingredients 8

1 box (8 oz) uncooked manicotti shells (14 shells)
2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (8 oz)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
1 box (10 oz) Cascadian Farm® frozen organic cut spinach, thawed, drained, squeezed dry
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 jar (25.5 oz) Muir Glen™ pasta sauce (any flavor)

Steps:

  • Heat oven to 375°F. Cook manicotti as directed on box. Rinse with cool water; drain well.
  • In medium bowl, stir together 1 1/2 cups of the Italian cheese blend, the red pepper, ricotta cheese, spinach, garlic and egg.
  • In bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish, spread 1 cup of the pasta sauce. Spoon ricotta mixture into manicotti; place over sauce in dish. Pour remaining sauce over manicotti.
  • Cover tightly with foil; bake about 30 minutes or until sauce is bubbling. Uncover dish; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Italian cheese blend. Bake uncovered 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 380, Carbohydrate 41 g, Cholesterol 80 mg, Fiber 4 g, Protein 22 g, SaturatedFat 8 g, ServingSize 1 Serving (2 Manicotti), Sodium 770 mg, Sugar 6 g, TransFat 0 g

KITTENCAL'S SPINACH & FOUR-CHEESE MANICOTTI (VEGETARIAN)



Kittencal's Spinach & Four-Cheese Manicotti (Vegetarian) image

I have been making this recipe for years, it is *the best* manicotti recipe hands down! --- I have made this many times for dinner parties and have made it for socials and large gatherings increasing amounts of coarse, I have even served this at my Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday table as an extra dish along with a turkey or ham --- to save time I always mix up the filling a day ahead and refrigerate this will also give the flavors a chance to blend together, or you may prepare up to step #9 cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours --- don't forget to cook the spinach first before using for this recipe

Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz

Categories     Manicotti

Time 1h10m

Yield 8 manicotti

Number Of Ingredients 15

3 tablespoons oil
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
2 teaspoons fresh garlic (no more than that or the garlic will overpower the other ingredients!)
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided (can use a bit more)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (can use more)
1 teaspoon italian seasoning
salt (to taste I use seasoned salt)
1/2-1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach (cooked according to package directions, then hand-squeezed dry to remove excess moisture)
8 manicotti, cooked and drained (you might use more shells so I would cook 10)
4 -6 cups marinara sauce (see my Kittencal's Marinara Pasta Sauce (Vegetarian))
1/4 cup parmesan cheese (or to taste)
mozzarella cheese, for topping (any amount desired)

Steps:

  • Set oven to 350 degrees F.
  • Butter a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
  • In a skillet, saute onion (if using) in oil for about 4 minutes or until softened (adding in the garlic the last 2 minutes).
  • In a mixing bowl combine the ricotta cheese, 1-1/2 cup mozza cheese, cream cheese, 6 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning; beat with a wooden spoon until smooth and well combined.
  • Season with white salt or seasoned salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Stir in onion mixture and spinach; mix well to combine.
  • Spoon into cooked and cooled manicotti shells.
  • Pour half of the pasta sauce into the prepared baking dish.
  • Arrange shells over sauce (at this point you may cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or continue with the recipe as follows).
  • Top with the remaining sauce, use a spoon to spread the sauce over the shells (the sauce does not have to cover the shells completely).
  • Sprinkle about 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (or to taste) over the sauce.
  • Cover and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Uncover and top with mozzeralla cheese (any amount desired).
  • Bake 5 mins longer, or until cheese is melted.
  • Let stand 10 mins before serving.
  • Note; If desired the spinach can be omitted completely.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 391.9, Fat 26.4, SaturatedFat 12.2, Cholesterol 64.7, Sodium 880.7, Carbohydrate 22.2, Fiber 4.4, Sugar 12.5, Protein 17.1

SPINACH CHEESE MANICOTTI



Spinach Cheese Manicotti image

Make and share this Spinach Cheese Manicotti recipe from Food.com.

Provided by weekend cooker

Categories     Manicotti

Time 1h

Yield 6 , 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

1 onion, minced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons oil
1 (15 ounce) carton ricotta cheese
1 (3 ounce) package softened cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 (3 ounce) package grated parmesan cheese, divided
2 teaspoons italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 (10 ounce) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed, and drained
9 manicotti, cooked, drained on wax paper
1 (26 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce

Steps:

  • .In a skillet, saute onion and garlicin oil and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, half the mozzarella, half the parmesan, italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and beat until well mixed.
  • Drain spinach with several paper towels and squeeze until spinach is well drained.
  • Add spinach and onion to cheese mixture and mix well.
  • Spoon this mixture into manicotti shells, using 1 teaspoon at a time.
  • Be careful not to tear shells.
  • Pour half of spaghetti sauce in bottom of 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Arrange shells over the sauce and top with remaining sauce.
  • Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
  • Remove from oven , uncover and sprinkle remaining cheeses over top.
  • Return to oven until cheese melts.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 709, Fat 50.4, SaturatedFat 26.1, Cholesterol 145.5, Sodium 1451.8, Carbohydrate 26.3, Fiber 5.2, Sugar 12.2, Protein 39.3

Tips:

  • Prep the Spinach: Before using the spinach, make sure to wash and thoroughly dry the leaves to prevent excess moisture from diluting the filling.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley add a burst of flavor to the filling. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by half.
  • Don't Overcook the Manicotti: Cook the manicotti just until al dente, about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking will make them mushy and difficult to handle.
  • Use a Variety of Cheeses: A combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses creates a rich and flavorful filling. You can also add a touch of grated Romano cheese for extra depth of flavor.
  • Make Ahead and Freeze: You can assemble the manicotti and freeze them unbaked for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the recipe instructions.

Conclusion:

Spinach manicotti with ham is a classic Italian dish that combines tender manicotti shells, a creamy spinach and cheese filling, and a savory ham sauce. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in this delectable culinary delight!

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