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Recipe

Spinach and Cheese Manicotti

Updated on 4 min read
image 2022 10 23T07 14 09 932Z Recipe

Quick Description

This Spinach and Cheese Manicotti is a delicious, low-carb dish that’s stuffed with a creamy filling of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and cream cheese, all wrapped in slices of roasted chicken or turkey deli meat. Topped with marinara sauce and Parmesan, it’s a perfect comfort food dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup whole ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
  • 8 slices roasted chicken or turkey deli meat (medium to thicker slices)
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (no sugar added)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Mix the Cheese Filling:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper.
    • Stir in the chopped spinach and mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.

Prepare the Manicotti:

  1. Assemble the Manicotti:
    • Lay out the deli meat slices flat on a clean surface.
    • Spoon the cheese and spinach mixture onto each slice of deli meat.
    • Carefully roll each slice up, enclosing the filling inside the deli meat to form a “manicotti.”

Prepare the Sauce and Baking Dish:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread the Marinara Sauce:
    • In a baking dish, spread ½ cup of marinara sauce to cover the bottom.
    • Arrange the rolled-up manicotti in a single layer in the baking dish.

Bake the Manicotti:

  1. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
    • Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the manicotti rolls.
    • Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese over the top.
  2. Bake the Dish:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
    • After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the manicotti hot with a side salad or some roasted vegetables.

Additional Notes

  • Chicken or Turkey Substitute: If you prefer, you can use ham or roast beef in place of chicken or turkey for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add more veggies to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or onions, for extra flavor and texture.
  • Sauce Options: You can use pesto sauce or a homemade tomato sauce for a different twist instead of the marinara.

Dietary Info

  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free
  • High-Protein
  • Dairy-Based

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Spinach: If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach (make sure it’s thawed and drained).
  • Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar cheese or parmesan for different flavors.
  • Deli Meat: Opt for low-sodium deli meat or even grilled chicken breast slices for a healthier option.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Cheesy Topping: For an extra cheesy finish, top the manicotti with shredded cheddar cheese or grated mozzarella before baking.
  • Serve with Veggies: Serve the manicotti with a side of roasted broccoli, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Assemble the dish (without baking), cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbs: 7 g
  • Net Carbs: 4 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinara sauce, but make sure it’s sugar-free to keep the carbs low.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to use cheddar, gruyère, or cream cheese as alternatives to mozzarella or Parmesan.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the manicotti and refrigerate it for 1–2 days before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Optional Personal Story

This Spinach and Cheese Manicotti has become a favorite in my household. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and it tastes just as rich and satisfying as the traditional pasta version. I love how the chicken or turkey deli meat acts as a delicious “shell,” holding the creamy cheese filling in place.

Call-to-Action

Make this Spinach and Cheese Manicotti today! It’s a delicious, filling, and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

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