Beef and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti is a comforting Italian-inspired baked pasta dish that brings together tender manicotti shells, a rich and savory beef filling, and the freshness of spinach, all nestled in a bed of hearty marinara sauce and topped with bubbly melted cheese.

This dish feels like a warm hug—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions when you want something filling, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of comfort and nourishment. The beef provides richness, the spinach adds freshness and color, and the pasta and cheese tie everything together into a truly indulgent dish. It’s also incredibly versatile and freezer-friendly, making it ideal for busy schedules or meal prep.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Hearty and satisfying with classic Italian flavors
• Perfect for family meals and gatherings
• Easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly
• Balanced with protein, greens, and carbs
• Comfort food that never goes out of style

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~520 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian / Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Manicotti

• 12 manicotti shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Add garlic and spinach; cook until spinach wilts. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, combine beef mixture, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Fill each manicotti shell with the beef and spinach mixture and place in the dish.
8. Pour remaining sauce over stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook the pasta shells: Boil manicotti until just tender; they will finish cooking in the oven.
2. Prepare the filling: Brown beef, sauté garlic and spinach, then combine with cheeses and seasonings.
3. Assemble the dish: Layer sauce, fill shells carefully, top with more sauce and cheese.
4. Bake: Covered first to heat through, then uncovered for a golden cheesy top.
5. Rest and garnish: Allow to set slightly before serving for cleaner slices.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• Pair with a simple green salad or Caesar salad
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness
• Ideal as a main dish for dinner parties or family meals

Recipe Tips

• Slightly undercook the manicotti to prevent tearing
• Use a piping bag or spoon to fill shells neatly
• Let the filling cool before stuffing to avoid breaking shells
• Cover tightly with foil to keep shells moist while baking
• Rest before serving to help everything set

Variations

• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded provolone or fontina to the filling
• Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with mushrooms or lentils
• Creamy Tomato: Use a mix of marinara and Alfredo sauce
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini slices instead of manicotti shells

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer (Unbaked): Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months
• Freezer (Baked): Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Spoon or piping bag for filling shells

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely—thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.

Q: How do I keep manicotti from breaking?
Cook just until al dente and handle gently when stuffing.

Q: Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
Yes, cottage cheese or mascarpone works well as alternatives.

Conclusion

Beef and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti is a classic, hearty pasta bake that delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. With its savory beef filling, nutritious spinach, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese topping, it’s a dish that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a true Italian-inspired favorite you’ll want to make again and again.