Follow these steps for perfect results
manicotti shells
cooked, rinsed and drained
spinach
chopped, frozen, thawed and squeezed
white mushrooms
shiitake mushrooms
onions
sweet red bell peppers
sautéed in red wine
cottage cheese
fat-free
garlic
sautéed with other ingredients
italian herbs
to taste
parmesan cheese
grated fat-free
Prepare the manicotti shells according to package directions, then rinse and drain.
Thaw the frozen spinach, squeeze out excess water, and chop.
Chop the white mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and onions.
Sauté the red bell peppers in red wine until softened.
Sauté garlic with the mushrooms, onions, and red bell peppers until fragrant and tender.
In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sautéed mushroom mixture, fat-free cottage cheese, Italian herbs, and grated fat-free Parmesan cheese.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Carefully stuff the manicotti shells with the prepared mixture.
Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
Pour spaghetti sauce over the noodles, ensuring they are well covered.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 45 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbly.
Expert advice for the best results
For extra flavor, add a layer of béchamel sauce under the spaghetti sauce.
Use a piping bag to fill the manicotti shells more easily.
Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a golden-brown crust.
Everything you need to know before you start
15 minutes
Can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.
Place two manicotti shells on a plate, spoon extra sauce on top and garnish with fresh basil.
Serve with a side of garlic bread.
Pair with a simple green salad.
Pairs well with Italian flavors.
A lighter option for a milder pairing.
Discover the story behind this recipe
A classic Italian-American dish often served during family gatherings and holidays.
Discover more delicious Italian-American Dinner recipes to expand your culinary repertoire
A classic Italian-American dish featuring pan-fried chicken cutlets in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms.
Classic Italian-American comfort food featuring breaded chicken breasts baked with tomato sauce and melted cheese, served over spaghetti.
Classic Chicken Parmesan recipe with a crispy chicken base, flavorful spaghetti sauce, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
A simple and delicious chicken parmesan recipe perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
A homemade spaghetti sauce recipe, perfect for canning or immediate use. Simmered for 3 hours for rich flavor.
A classic Italian-American dish featuring chicken breasts in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms and shallots.
A decadent dish featuring succulent lobster in a rich, creamy garlic sauce, served over linguine with fresh pea pods.
A classic and hearty spaghetti meat sauce, simmered for hours to develop a rich and complex flavor.