Spinach Cheese Manicotti

Ingredients and Weight:

• Manicotti shells: 16 large
• Spinach, fresh: 1 pound
• Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces
• Parmesan cheese, grated: 1/2 cup
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 1/2 cup
• Asiago cheese, shredded: 1/4 cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Onion, finely chopped: 1/4 cup
• Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups
• Béchamel sauce: 1 cup

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level: 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the spinach leaves for 1-2 minutes.
3. Remove the spinach and squeeze out any excess water.
4. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Asiago cheese, egg, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Fill each manicotti shell with the spinach filling.
6. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce.
7. Arrange the manicotti shells on top of the marinara sauce.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti shells.
9. In a separate bowl, combine the béchamel sauce with 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Pour this mixture over the manicotti.
10. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25 grams
• Saturated fat: 15 grams
• Cholesterol: 100 milligrams
• Sodium: 600 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugar: 10 grams
• Protein: 25 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and cheesy interior
• Delicate manicotti shells
• Rich and flavorful marinara and béchamel sauces
• Perfect for special occasions
• Versatile and can be served with a side salad or bread

User Comments:

• "The spinach filling is so delicious and creamy."
• "The manicotti was cooked perfectly and the flavors were amazing."
• "This dish was a hit with my guests."
• "I love the combination of the spinach, cheese, and sauces."
• "This is a dish that I will definitely make again."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you can't find fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach instead. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before using.
• You can use any type of cheese you like in the filling.
• If you don't have any béchamel sauce, you can make a simple white sauce by melting butter in a pan and whisking in flour.
• Let the manicotti stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.