Name: Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 6 oz manicotti shells; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp minced garlic; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided); 1 tbsp cajun seasoning (divided); 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; pinch of red pepper flakes; pinch of ground nutmeg; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup diced onion; remaining parmesan cheese; remaining cajun seasoning; 1-2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; parsley for garnish

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 5 reviews

If you are craving a dish that brings together the cozy comfort of cheese-filled pasta and the bold, spicy creaminess of Cajun flavors, then this Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe is your new go-to favorite. It’s everything you want in a hearty meal: tender manicotti shells overflowing with a luscious ricotta and spinach filling, smothered in a dreamy, spiced Alfredo sauce that has just the right kick. This recipe takes classic Italian-American comfort food to the next level by introducing Cajun seasoning, making every bite irresistibly flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with a mix of chopped green herbs, finely chopped white onions, white ricotta cheese, and red spice powder, all divided in separate sections within the bowl. Nearby, there is a white rectangular baking dish holding several uncooked, large ridged pasta shells that are pale yellow. A white round bowl contains grated cheese, and there are small white dishes around with various spices including crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper. A white saucepan filled with a creamy, light beige sauce with visible pepper specks is being stirred with a wooden spoon that has a natural wood color. There is also a silver grater and chunks of hard cheese on a small grey plate. The whole setup sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the creamy cheeses providing richness and gooey texture, to fresh spinach adding brightness and color, and the Cajun spices delivering that smoky, zesty punch.

6 oz manicotti shells: Choose good quality pasta for perfect stuffing and hold.
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds a silky base and enriches the sautéed garlic.
2 tbsp minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with fragrant warmth and depth.
2 cups heavy whipping cream: Creates the base for a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce.
1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided): Adds sharp, nutty flavor for savory balance.
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided): Delivers that signature spicy, smoky Cajun kick.
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herby undertones that complement the cheese blend.
Pinch of red pepper flakes: Enhances the heat without overpowering the dish.
Pinch of ground nutmeg: A secret ingredient that adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
1 cup ricotta cheese: The creamy filling that makes every bite luscious.
2 cups fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a touch of freshness.
1/2 cup diced onion: Provides sweetness and texture to the filling.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Parsley for garnish: Offers a burst of freshness and vibrant green color.
1-2 cups marinara sauce: A classic tomato base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy Alfredo.

How to Make Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Manicotti Shells

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Slightly cook the manicotti shells for about five minutes or dip them briefly in hot water until they are softened but still firm enough to hold the filling. This careful prep step stops the shells from breaking when stuffed and ensures they finish cooking perfectly in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 to 60 seconds—this gentle cooking brings out that fragrant flavor without burning. Next, pour in the heavy cream and add half of the Parmesan cheese, half of the Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened. Once ready, pour the sauce into a baking pan and set aside for the filling step.

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach and Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, diced onion, the remaining Parmesan cheese, and the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Stir everything well until fully blended. This filling is creamy and packed with flavor from the heat of the Cajun spices and the freshness of the greens.

Step 4: Stuff the Manicotti and Assemble the Dish

Fill each manicotti shell with the spinach and ricotta mixture at room temperature for easier stuffing. Place the stuffed shells neatly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Then, generously top with marinara sauce, spreading it evenly over the pasta, followed by a blanket of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled dish for about 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Once out of the oven, give it 10 to 15 minutes to cool and set, which makes serving easier and lets the flavors meld beautifully. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and brightness before digging in.

How to Serve Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish sits on a white marbled surface, filled halfway with a creamy, light beige sauce speckled with black pepper. Five long, ridged pasta tubes, each filled with a white and green ricotta mixture, are aligned horizontally near the top edge, partially submerged in the sauce. Around the baking dish are small white bowls containing red pepper flakes, dried herbs, and the ricotta filling. To the left is a bowl of uncooked pasta, and to the bottom left is a plate with chunks of pale yellow cheese next to a grater. To the right, there is a white plate holding more uncooked pasta tubes. The whole scene is bright and minimal with soft natural light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is perfect for adding a vibrant green touch that complements the creamy, spicy sauce. For an extra flavor boost, you can also add a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or a few more red pepper flakes for those who love that extra kick.

Side Dishes

This Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans also make excellent sides that add texture and freshness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the manicotti in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also drizzle some extra Alfredo sauce or marinara artfully around the plate, and add edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the presentation and impress your guests with style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps beautifully for up to three days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious. Just bring the manicotti to room temperature before reheating to ensure even warming.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions but watch carefully to avoid drying out the sauce; adding a splash of cream or water can help maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular manicotti shells for gluten-free pasta shells or no-boil gluten-free manicotti, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors without worry.

Is it possible to use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the cheese filling to avoid a watery texture.

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce in this recipe?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate, flavorful heat that balances with the creamy sauce, but if you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount or omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can make the filling and sauce ahead, stuff the shells, and store them assembled but unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then bake right before serving.

What cheese substitutions can I make?

While ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella work best, you can experiment with adding cream cheese for extra richness or swapping mozzarella with provolone for a slightly different melt and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese Manicotti with Creamy Cajun Alfredo and Spinach Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves Italian comfort food with a spicy twist. It’s rich, cozy, and bursting with layers of flavor that bring people running to the table. Don’t wait for a special occasion—make this tonight and discover a new favorite to share with the ones you love.