Cheese Manicotti Florentine

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Creamy ricotta and spinach-stuffed pasta shells baked in a rich tomato sauce.
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This classic Italian-American dish combines tender manicotti shells with a luscious filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach. The “Florentine” style highlights the earthy, vibrant flavor of spinach, balanced by the creamy richness of cheese and the acidity of a hearty spaghetti sauce. It is a comforting, satisfying meal that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a busy weeknight. The dish offers a beautiful contrast between the soft pasta, the robust vegetable filling, and the bubbling tomato topping. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete, restaurant-quality dinner at home. It is a reliable favorite that delivers consistent flavor and warmth to your table.

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Cheese Manicotti Florentine

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 737.5

Description

This classic Italian-American dish combines tender manicotti shells with a luscious filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh spinach. The "Florentine" style highlights the earthy, vibrant flavor of spinach, balanced by the creamy richness of cheese and the acidity of a hearty spaghetti sauce. It is a comforting, satisfying meal that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a busy weeknight. The dish offers a beautiful contrast between the soft pasta, the robust vegetable filling, and the bubbling tomato topping. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete, restaurant-quality dinner at home. It is a reliable favorite that delivers consistent flavor and warmth to your table.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350ðF (175ðC).
  2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions and sliced mushrooms over medium heat until tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Steam chopped spinach until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture thoroughly.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 lb shredded mozzarella, 3/4 cup grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Fold the drained spinach and 3/4 of the sautéed onion-mushroom mixture into the cheese mixture.
  6. Fill each uncooked manicotti shell with the cheese-spinach mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  7. Arrange the filled manicotti shells in a single layer in a greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
  8. Stir the remaining sautéed vegetables into 2 cups of spaghetti sauce and pour the sauce evenly over the manicotti.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops are golden.
  11. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 737.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 40.0g62%
Saturated Fat 14.2g71%
Cholesterol 148.7mg50%
Sodium 2351.3mg98%
Total Carbohydrate 68.6g23%
Dietary Fiber 4.4g18%
Sugars 5.4g
Protein 34.5g69%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: italian, pasta, spinach, ricotta, vegetarian, baked, comfort food, dinner, cheese, manicotti, florentine, easy, family meal, tomato sauce
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