Sausage and Spinach Baked Manicotti

• 12 manicotti shells, cooked
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage until browned, then drain excess fat.
3. 3 Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. 4 In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sausage and spinach mixture.
5. 5 Stuff the manicotti shells with the mixture.
6. 6 Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
7. 7 Arrange the stuffed shells seam-side up over the sauce.
8. 8 Top with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
9. 9 Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. 10 Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. 11 Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls

Variations

• Add diced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• If ricotta is unavailable, substitute with a mix of cottage cheese and cream cheese.
• Use spinach frozen and thawed for convenience.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Red wine

Nutrition

Tips

• For a make-ahead option, assemble the manicotti and refrigerate overnight before baking.
• Use whole wheat manicotti shells for a healthier twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered with foil for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake another 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.

FAQ