Name: Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz. manicotti pasta tubes; 1.25 lbs. Italian sausage; 1 onion, finely diced; 2 cups chopped fresh spinach; 8 oz. mozzarella, shredded (divided); 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided); 1 egg, slightly beaten; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce

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A Cozy Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti Recipe

In the heart of every home, there’s that one dish that brings everyone to the table. For many of us, it’s a comforting casserole or pasta baked to perfection that warms the soul—and this Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti recipe hits all the right notes. Imagine sitting down to a plate of tender manicotti, the creamy filling oozing with melted mozzarella and a rich blend of Italian sausage and fresh spinach, all smothered in bubbling spaghetti sauce. It’s sheer comfort on a plate! Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy dish to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is one you’ll want to pin for later!

Reasons You’ll Want to Try It

Quick and Easy: Comes together in just a few simple steps for a hassle-free dinner.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will gobble up this cheesy, meaty delight!
Savory and Comforting: Each bite is warm, creamy, and packed with flavor—perfect for chilly evenings.
Make-Ahead Option: Prep it ahead of time for an effortless weeknight meal.
Impressive Presentation: Beautifully baked and golden brown, it’s a showstopper for any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti

Gather these simple ingredients to create a cozy dish that tantalizes the taste buds:

8 oz. manicotti pasta tubes
1.25 lbs. Italian sausage
1 onion, finely diced
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
8 oz. mozzarella, shredded (divided)
3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (divided)
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce

How to Make Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple, sensory-rich steps that will fill your kitchen with the enticing aroma of Italian goodness:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 13×9 baking dish with cooking spray or rub it with olive oil to ensure your manicotti won’t stick.
Bring a large pot of liberally salted water to a boil and cook the manicotti according to the manufacturer’s instructions until al dente. Strain and set aside to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, remove the casings from the Italian sausage (if applicable) and add it to a large skillet along with the finely diced onion. Cook and crumble the sausage over medium heat until fully browned and cooked through.
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir, cooking for just a few minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, the beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cooled sausage and spinach mixture. Mix everything together until well combined.
Spread 1/2 cup of spaghetti sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a cozy layer for the manicotti.
Drain the manicotti and gently stuff each tube with the delicious meat and cheese mixture. If you have any leftover filling, tuck it between the manicotti in the dish.
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the stuffed manicotti, covering it entirely. Make sure to cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and heavenly.
Remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Let the dish rest for about 15 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a delightful pop of color.

Fun Ways to Customize It

Vegetarian Version: Swap out the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or a medley of roasted vegetables for a fresh, plant-based twist.
Zesty Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for a bit of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix some fresh basil or oregano into the filling for an extra layer of flavor that sings Italian.
Creamy Touch: Stir in some ricotta cheese into the meat mixture for an even creamier texture that’s simply indulgent.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it!
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results!
Perfectly Cooked Manicotti: Ensure not to overcook the manicotti when boiling; they should still have a bit of bite since they’ll continue to cook while baking.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 manicotti
Calories: 420
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 5g
Fat: 24g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 850mg

Reader FAQs About Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the meat for turkey or even a protein substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also reheat well in the oven.

How long does it last?
Cooked manicotti can last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days, but I doubt it’ll stick around that long!

A Cozy Closing Note

This Italian Sausage & Cheese Baked Manicotti recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather, share, and enjoy each bite together with loved ones. With its layers of flavor and comforting essence, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So, save this delicious recipe to your dinner ideas board, and let it become a cherished staple in your home. Can’t wait for you to enjoy its cheesy, meaty goodness!