Ingredients

1 medium onion , finely chopped
3 cloves garlic , minced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil ( canola or olive )
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese , shredded , divided
4 ounces cream cheese , softened
6 tablespoons parmesan cheese , grated , divided
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 package frozen chopped spinach , thawed and squeezed dry
8 manicotti , cooked and drained acording to package directions
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1/8 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
This cheesy and creamy spinach cheese manicotti recipe is an easy and delicious pasta dish that is perfect for meatless meals or when you want a break from meaty Italian dishes. The cheese filling is a combo of ricotta, mozzarella, cream cheese, and parmesan, making it super flavorful. The tangy spaghetti sauce, seasoned with nutmeg and cinnamon, complements the cheese filling perfectly. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The best part is that the leftovers are just as delicious.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2.In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic in the oil until they are soft.
3.In a mixing bowl, combine the onion and garlic mixture with the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, 4 tablespoons parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and chopped spinach.
4.Pipe or spoon the cheese mixture into the manicotti shells.
5.In a separate bowl, combine the spaghetti sauce, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
6.Pour half of the spaghetti sauce mixture onto the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed manicotti shells over it.
7.Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
8.Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce.
9.Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

PROS

This spinach cheese manicotti recipe is an easy, meatless dish that is a crowd-pleaser.
The cheese filling and spaghetti sauce are a perfect blend of creamy and tangy.

This dish is a good source of calcium from the cheese filling and spinach.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and sodium and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish contains spinach, which is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and iron, as well as being anti-inflammatory. Calcium from the cheese filling and spinach contribute to strong bones and teeth.

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