Name: Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup Bob’s Red Mill Unbleached White Organic All-Purpose Flour; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 8 ounces fresh spinach (approx. 8 cups packed); 16 ounces ricotta cheese (2 cups); 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; Heaping ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Heaping ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; Ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons Bob’s Red Mill Unbleached White Organic All-Purpose Flour; 1 ½ cups whole milk; 3 cloves garlic, smashed open; ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; Ground black pepper, to taste; 1 – 1 ½ cups Simple San Marzano Tomato Sauce (or jarred tomato basil sauce of choice); 2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend; ¼ cup grated parmesan; Nonstick cooking spray

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 3 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of combining the delicate elegance of crepes with the hearty comfort of manicotti, then the Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe is your new go-to dish. This recipe marries tender, thin crepes stuffed with a luscious spinach ricotta blend and topped with rich béchamel and tomato sauce, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that feels both fancy and homey. It’s perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner, offering layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white baking dish filled with eight rolled crepes arranged in two rows, each crepe smooth and pale yellow, with slight golden spots and soft texture. Around the dish, on a white marbled surface, there is a clear glass bowl with shredded white cheese on the left, a clear glass measuring cup with rich red tomato sauce above it, a small white bowl with grated parmesan cheese below, and a metal saucepan with thick white sauce and a spoon inside on the right. The colors are calm and natural, showing the preparation steps before baking or serving. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build the perfect harmony between taste, texture, and color. From the fresh spinach that adds a vibrant green pop to the creamy ricotta that brings richness, every component plays a vital role in making this dish unforgettable.

Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for cooking crepes without sticking, ensuring a smooth surface.
Manicotti crepes: Thin and flexible, these homemade crepes act as delicate wrappers for the filling.
Spinach ricotta filling: A creamy blend that balances freshness and savoriness.
Béchamel sauce: This silky, nutmeg-scented sauce adds luxurious creaminess.
Simple San Marzano Tomato Sauce (1–1 ½ cups): Adds acidity and sweetness for a balanced finish.
Shredded Italian cheese blend (2 cups): Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Grated parmesan (¼ cup, plus 1 cup for filling): Adds sharp, salty depth.
Whole milk (1 ½ cups): Provides moisture and creaminess, used in crepe batter and béchamel.
Large eggs (4 total): Bind ingredients and create structure in crepes and filling.
Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons total): Adds richness and helps develop the béchamel’s smooth texture.
Bob’s Red Mill Unbleached White Organic All-Purpose Flour (1 cup for crepes, 2 tablespoons for béchamel): Forms the base of the batter and thickens the sauce perfectly.
Kosher salt: Used throughout to season layers generously.
Fresh spinach (8 ounces, about 8 cups packed): Wilts down to give the filling its wonderful green color and fresh vegetable flavor.
Ricotta cheese (16 ounces, 2 cups): Creamy and mild, the star of the filling.
Garlic powder and onion powder (heaping ½ teaspoon each): Infuse the filling with subtle aromatic hints.
Ground black pepper: Season to taste for a little warmth.
Freshly grated nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, warming spice to béchamel.
Garlic cloves (3 smashed): Infuse béchamel with a subtle depth of flavor.

How to Make Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crepe Batter

Start by blending whole milk, eggs, melted butter, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of kosher salt until completely smooth. Let this batter rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, which is key to achieving tender, pliable crepes that don’t tear when rolled.

Step 2: Wilt the Spinach

Wilt the fresh spinach either by microwaving or sautéing it just until it’s soft and bright green. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture and chop it roughly afterward so the flavor disperses evenly through the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Spinach Ricotta Filling

Combine the chopped wilted spinach with ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and unified – this creamy filling is the heart of the whole dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until golden brown and fragrant. This forms the roux, the thickening base for your béchamel sauce, so keep stirring to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Make the Béchamel Sauce

Slowly whisk whole milk into the roux along with smashed garlic cloves. Let it gently simmer and thicken until it coats the back of a spoon. Finish with freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper for that smooth, subtly spiced sauce that ties everything together.

Step 6: Cook the Manicotti Crepes

Use a nonstick skillet heated to medium and pour in a small amount of batter. Swirl it quickly to form an 8-inch circle, cook until set, then flip and cook for just a minute longer. The crepes should be tender and flexible, ideal for rolling around the filling.

Step 7: Assemble the Crepe Manicotti

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and spray foil to cover the baking dish. Spread a generous quarter cup of the spinach ricotta mixture on each crepe, fold and roll to create manicotti shapes, then arrange seam-side down in your dish. Layer with béchamel, tomato sauce, shredded Italian cheese, and a sprinkle of parmesan before covering with foil.

Step 8: Bake and Finish

Bake the manicotti for 30–35 minutes until bubbly. For a golden, cheesy finish, remove foil and broil briefly, but keep a close eye to prevent burning. Let rest before serving to help the layers set beautifully.

How to Serve Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe

A white plate holds a serving of lasagna and fresh green salad, placed on a white marbled surface. The lasagna has three main layers: a golden brown melted cheese topping with green basil leaves and chopped herbs scattered over it, a middle layer of reddish tomato sauce mixed with bits of meat and cheese, and a bottom layer of soft pasta sheets visible at the edges. Next to the lasagna, leafy salad with mixed greens adds bright green shades and a light texture. A silver fork rests on the plate beside the lasagna. Nearby, a small wooden bowl of grated cheese, a glass of white wine, and a bowl of more fresh greens sit on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil or finely chopped parsley adds a fresh, peppery pop that brightens the richness of the filling and sauces. A few red pepper flakes on top will give your dish a nice little kick if you enjoy a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a light arugula salad to contrast the creamy texture. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley also pairs beautifully, rounding out the meal with complementary flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, arrange individual manicotti rolls in mini gratin dishes for personal servings. Alternatively, layer unrolled crepes with filling and sauces in a casserole style for a rustic yet elegant presentation that looks stunning on any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture and prevent the cheese from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled, unbaked manicotti covered with foil for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time to accommodate. This makes the dish perfect for meal prep or special occasions when you want to save time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave slices on medium power, but baking keeps the texture and flavors intact best.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought crepes instead of making them from scratch?

Absolutely! While homemade crepes add a special touch of freshness and tenderness, good-quality store-bought crepes can save time and still deliver delicious results in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian, as it relies on dairy and eggs for richness. To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives, which might require some adjustments to texture and flavor.

How can I make the béchamel sauce thicker or thinner?

If your béchamel is too thin, continue simmering gently while whisking to reduce and thicken. To thin it, whisk in a splash of milk little by little until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute frozen spinach for fresh in the filling?

You can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out as much water as possible before using. Excess moisture might make the filling runny.

What type of cheese blend works best for topping?

An Italian cheese blend with mozzarella, provolone, and mild cheddar melts wonderfully and creates a golden, bubbly crust that complements the crepes and sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, the Homemade Crepe Manicotti with Spinach Ricotta Filling Recipe is a delightful way to impress your loved ones. Its layers of tender crepes, creamy filling, and luscious sauces come together in a symphony of flavor that makes every bite special. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite comfort food!