If you're looking for a delicious and filling meal, 1 manicotti (195 g) Cheese Manicotti is the perfect choice for you. With 330 calories per serving, this dish is a great source of energy that will keep you going throughout the day.
Not only is this dish flavorful, but it also packs a punch in terms of nutrition. One serving size of Cheese Manicotti contains 21g of protein, 43g of carbohydrates, and 10g of fat. This makes it a well-balanced meal that will satisfy your hunger while keeping you on track with your diet.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at Cheese Manicotti and provide you with all the information you need to enjoy this delicious Italian classic to the fullest.
Calories in Cheese Manicotti
One serving of Cheese Manicotti (195g) contains 330 calories. This may seem like a lot, but it's actually a reasonable amount for a meal that is as filling and nutritious as this one. If you're trying to manage your calorie intake, you can always reduce the portion size or pair the dish with a lower calorie side dish to keep your overall calorie count in check.
Serving Size of Cheese Manicotti
A serving size of Cheese Manicotti is 195g. This typically equates to one stuffed tube of pasta. If you're cooking for a group or want to have leftovers, you can easily adjust the recipe to increase the serving size. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the pasta gets fully cooked.
Macros in Cheese Manicotti
Cheese Manicotti is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. In addition to the 21g of protein, one serving of Cheese Manicotti contains 43g of carbohydrates and 10g of fat. The carbs in the dish come from the pasta and the filling, which typically consists of cheese and marinara sauce. The fat comes from the cheese and the sauce, which are typically made with olive oil. Overall, the macronutrient profile of Cheese Manicotti makes it a great meal for fueling your body and keeping you full and satisfied for hours.
Cheese Manicotti Ingredients
To make Cheese Manicotti at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 box of manicotti pasta
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 jar of marinara sauce
These ingredients will give you a classic Comfort food style Cheese Manicotti that everyone will love!
Health Benefits of Cheese Manicotti
In addition to being a delicious and satisfying meal, Cheese Manicotti also has several health benefits. Here are some of the ways in which this dish can contribute to your overall health and wellbeing:
- Good source of protein: As mentioned earlier, Cheese Manicotti contains 21g of protein per serving. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps to build and repair tissues in the body, as well as keeping us feeling full and satisfied.
- High in fiber: The pasta in Cheese Manicotti is a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber helps to regulate digestion, keeping you full and satisfied while also promoting healthy bowel movements.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Many of the ingredients in Cheese Manicotti, including the tomato sauce and fresh herbs, are rich in vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and wellbeing.
Of course, it's important to enjoy Cheese Manicotti as part of a balanced diet and to not overindulge. But by incorporating this dish into your meal plan, you can enjoy its health benefits while also indulging in a delicious comfort food meal.
Side Dishes with Cheese Manicotti
While Cheese Manicotti is a filling and nutritious meal on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to create an even more filling and satisfying meal. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with Cheese Manicotti:
- Garlic bread
- Salad greens with vinaigrette
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Caprese salad
- Minestrone soup
These sides will add extra flavor and nutrition to your meal, making it even more enjoyable!
How to Cook Cheese Manicotti
If you want to make Cheese Manicotti at home, here's a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the manicotti pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the cheese mixture into the manicotti pasta tubes.
- Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then place the stuffed manicotti pasta on top. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle some additional shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
It's that simple! With this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious homemade Cheese Manicotti whenever you want.
Cheese Manicotti Variations
While the classic Cheese Manicotti recipe is always a delicious choice, there are also several variations you can try to mix things up. Here are some of the best Cheese Manicotti variations to try:
- Spinach and ricotta cheese manicotti
- Chicken and broccoli manicotti
- Sausage and mushroom manicotti
- Vegetarian tofu and vegetable manicotti
- Seafood and cheese manicotti
These variations add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to the classic dish, giving you even more ways to enjoy this Italian classic.
Cheese Manicotti Storage
If you have leftovers of Cheese Manicotti, you can easily store them for later use. Here's how to store Cheese Manicotti properly:
- Let the dish cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
By storing your leftovers properly, you can enjoy Cheese Manicotti for multiple meals without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Where to Buy Cheese Manicotti
If you don't have the time or inclination to make Cheese Manicotti at home, you can always buy premade versions at your local grocery store or Italian deli. Here are some of the best places to buy premade Cheese Manicotti:
- Costco
- Trader Joe's
- Whole Foods
- Fresh Market
- Italian delis and markets
These stores and markets typically carry high-quality pre-made Cheese Manicotti that you can easily heat up and serve for a quick and delicious meal.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese Manicotti
1. What is Cheese Manicotti?
Cheese manicotti is a traditional Italian pasta dish that consists of large pasta tubes filled with a mixture of ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
2. How many calories are in one serving of Cheese Manicotti?
One serving of Cheese Manicotti (195 g) contains 330 calories.
3. How is Cheese Manicotti typically served?
Cheese Manicotti is typically served with a tomato or marinara sauce, and can be topped with additional cheese or herbs.
4. Can Cheese Manicotti be frozen?
Yes, Cheese Manicotti can be frozen. It is recommended to wrap each individual manicotti with plastic wrap and then place in an airtight container before freezing.
5. What are some variations of Cheese Manicotti?
There are many variations of Cheese Manicotti, such as spinach and ricotta manicotti, sausage and cheese manicotti, and mushroom and ricotta manicotti.