9 Oz Cheese Manicotti is a delicious Italian dish that is perfect for those who love cheesy and creamy pasta. With only 360 calories per serving, it's a great option for those who want to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising their diet.
This dish is packed with essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins A and C. The creamy cheese filling and tender pasta shells make it a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and method of preparation for making 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti, as well as its benefits, side effects, serving suggestions, and storage instructions. Let's get started!
Introduction to 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
9 Oz Cheese Manicotti is a classic Italian dish that originated in the Campania region of Italy. It consists of pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese, then baked until golden and bubbling. This dish is a favorite of many pasta lovers around the world and can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. Whether you prefer a spicy tomato sauce or a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti can be adapted to your taste. If you're looking for a comforting and filling meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, look no further than 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti.
A serving of 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti contains approximately 360 calories, 25g of protein, 36g of carbs, and 13g of fat. The dish is also a good source of calcium, with each serving providing around 20% of the daily recommended intake. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it may not be suitable for those on a low-calorie or low-fat diet. If you're unsure about whether 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti is right for you, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.
Ingredients of 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
To make 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti, you'll need: 1 box of manicotti shells, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of dried oregano, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. You'll also need your choice of pasta sauce, whether it's a classic marinara sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce. Most of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or supermarket, and the dish can be easily adapted to include other ingredients such as ground beef, spinach, or mushrooms.
Method of Preparation for 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish with cooking spray. 2. Cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions until they are al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool them down. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Benefits of 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
9 Oz Cheese Manicotti is a good source of protein and calcium, both of which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones and muscles. It may also be beneficial for those looking to gain weight or increase muscle mass due to its high calorie and protein content. However, it should be consumed in moderation as it is high in fat and calories. Additionally, the dish can be easily customized to include other nutrient-dense ingredients such as vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Side Effects of 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
9 Oz Cheese Manicotti may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, as it contains significant amounts of cheese and milk products. Additionally, due to its high calorie and fat content, it may contribute to weight gain or increase the risk of heart disease if consumed in excess. As with any food, it's important to consume 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions for 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
9 Oz Cheese Manicotti is a versatile dish that can be served on its own as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with a simple garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant. You can also garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage Instructions for 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
If you have any leftovers, you can store 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Do not freeze the dish, as the pasta shells may become mushy and the cheese may lose its creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish? A: Yes! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne or rigatoni, as long as it is large enough to hold the filling. Q: Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Where to Buy 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti
You can find 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti at most Italian restaurants or pizzerias. If you want to make the dish at home, you can find all the ingredients at your local grocery store or supermarket. Alternatively, you can order the ingredients online from specialty food retailers or Italian gourmet shops.
Life is a combination of magic and pasta.
FAQs About 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti (360 calories)
1. What are the ingredients in 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti?
The main ingredients in 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti are pasta shells, cheese filling (ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and parsley), and tomato sauce.
2. How many servings are in a 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti package?
There is one serving in a 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti package.
3. Is 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti a healthy meal option?
9 Oz Cheese Manicotti contains 360 calories, which is relatively high for one meal. It also has a significant amount of saturated fat and sodium. Therefore, it is not a particularly healthy meal option, but it could be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. How do I cook 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti?
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Cook the pasta shells according to the package directions, drain, and let cool. Stuff each shell with the cheese filling and place them in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the shells and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bubbly.
5. Can I freeze 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti?
Yes, you can freeze 9 Oz Cheese Manicotti. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before putting it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through.