Easy Three Cheese Manicotti Recipe to Try Tonight

Nothing beats a warm, comforting dish like Three Cheese Manicotti when you want an easy dinner that feels special. This delicious Three Cheese Manicotti features a creamy blend of plant-based cheeses, a rich tomato sauce (natural), and aromatic herbs to give you a fantastic flavor with minimal fuss. It’s the perfect recipe to bring a touch of Italian magic to your weeknight table and impress everyone with layers of gooey, cheesy goodness wrapped in tender pasta tubes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity and Flavor: Easy-to-follow steps deliver a satisfying homemade feel without hours in the kitchen.
• Comforting and Nourishing: Creamy, cheesy filling and zesty tomato sauce (natural) make it a cozy meal everyone will enjoy.
• Plant-Based Delight: Using plant-based cheeses adds creaminess while keeping it light and friendly for everyone.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this recipe turns any dinner into a mini celebration.
• Customizable: You can tweak the herbs and fillings easily for endless delicious variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few simple, quality ingredients is all it takes to create this Three Cheese Manicotti masterpiece. Each item plays a key role in building vibrant flavors, luscious texture, and beautiful color for your dish.

• Manicotti shells: Perfect pasta tubes for stuffing that hold the cheesy filling beautifully.
• Plant-based ricotta: Creamy base for the filling, offering that signature smooth texture.
• Plant-based mozzarella: Adds stretchy, melty layers that make every bite heavenly.
• Plant-based Parmesan: Sharp, nutty notes to round out the cheese blend.
• Tomato sauce (natural): Rich and tangy, it ties the whole dish together with a fresh tomato flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Basil and parsley brighten the sauce and filling with fresh herbal notes.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami for an irresistible punch.
• Garlic and onion: Provides a warm, aromatic base for the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar: A splash lifts the tomato sauce’s flavor making every bite vibrant.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps keep the filling creamy and perfectly set inside the shells.

Variations for Three Cheese Manicotti

One of the best things about this Three Cheese Manicotti recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to add veggies, switch up herbs, or adapt for dietary needs, the possibilities are endless and delicious.

• Spinach and Mushroom: Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms into the cheese filling for more texture and nutrients.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon Crunch: Crisp up some smoked turkey bacon and stir it into the filling for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños into the sauce (natural) for those who love some heat.
• Herb Swap: Try oregano or thyme instead of basil for a different herbal profile.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan (plant-based) for a fully vegan-friendly meal.

How to Make Three Cheese Manicotti

Step 1: Prepare the Manicotti Shells

Start by boiling your manicotti shells in salted water until just tender but still firm – al dente is perfect. Drain and gently rinse with cool water to stop cooking, then set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine plant-based ricotta, shredded plant-based mozzarella, grated plant-based Parmesan, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a small amount of natural gelling agent. Stir in a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. Mix until creamy and well-blended.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce (natural)

Warm olive oil in a pan, then sauté minced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add tomato sauce (natural), a splash of apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, chopped fresh basil, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each manicotti shell generously with the cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish with a layer of tomato sauce (natural) at the bottom to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the remaining tomato sauce (natural) over the stuffed shells and sprinkle extra shredded plant-based mozzarella on top. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Pro Tips for Making Three Cheese Manicotti

• Don’t overcook pasta shells: They will finish cooking in the oven and stay tender without falling apart.
• Use room temperature cheese: Makes mixing the filling smoother and fluffier.
• Fill gently but fully: Stuff shells carefully to avoid tearing and ensure every bite is cheesy.
• Let sauce simmer slowly: This deepens the tomato flavor and balances acidity beautifully.
• Cover during baking: Keeps moisture in while melting all cheeses and prevents drying out.

How to Serve Three Cheese Manicotti

Garnishes

Finish your Three Cheese Manicotti with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a fresh pop of color and brightness.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread made with olive oil and herbs, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a full and balanced meal your whole table will appreciate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions on flat plates with a decorative swirl of tomato sauce (natural) around the edges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover manicotti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days while maintaining freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked stuffed manicotti in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. Cook from frozen following the recipe, adding extra baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave covered loosely to keep cheese creamy and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make Three Cheese Manicotti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells the day before, then bake fresh when ready to enjoy.

Is Three Cheese Manicotti gluten-free?

This recipe uses regular manicotti pasta, but swapping in gluten-free pasta shells works beautifully without sacrificing texture.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs add a vibrant flavor; just increase the quantity slightly compared to dried and add them towards the end of cooking.

What’s the best plant-based cheese for this recipe?

Look for creamy, meltable plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan styles to replicate a traditional flavor and texture.

How spicy can I make Three Cheese Manicotti?

It’s easy to customize the heat level by adding chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce (natural) or filling as desired.

Final Thoughts

Three Cheese Manicotti is one of those timeless dishes that combines simplicity and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this creamy, comforting recipe made with plant-based cheeses and fresh herbs will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying dinner. Give it a try tonight and watch everyone fall in love with every cheesy, flavorful bite!

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