10 Delicious Stuffings for Manicotti You Haven’t Tried Yet

Manicotti is a comforting Italian classic. Those large pasta tubes are like edible envelopes waiting to be filled with rich, creamy, and flavorful stuffings. While cheese and spinach are traditional favorites, there’s a whole world of unique combinations that can transform your manicotti from predictable to unforgettable.

In this article, we’ll share 10 delicious and creative stuffings for manicotti you probably haven’t tried yet. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, something hearty, or a new flavor profile, there’s something here to inspire your next meal.

1. Roasted Butternut Squash & Sage Ricotta

Creamy, slightly sweet, and earthy—this stuffing screams fall comfort.

• Ingredients: Roasted butternut squash, ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, fresh sage, salt, pepper.
  
• Why it works: The natural sweetness of squash pairs beautifully with herby sage and mild cheese.
  
• Flavor tip: Drizzle with browned butter before serving for a nutty finish.
  

2. Spinach & Artichoke Cream Cheese Blend

Think of your favorite dip—now imagine it stuffed inside pasta.

• Ingredients: Cooked spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic.
  
• Why it works: It’s creamy, savory, and packed with texture.
  
• Flavor tip: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy edge.
  

3. Spicy Sausage & Sun-Dried Tomato

Meaty with a tangy kick, this one’s for bold flavor lovers.

• Ingredients: Cooked Italian sausage, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, ricotta, oregano, red pepper flakes.
  
• Why it works: The sun-dried tomatoes add brightness that cuts through the richness.
  
• Flavor tip: Use hot sausage for extra spice.
  

4. Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese

Sweet meets tangy in this sophisticated combination.

• Ingredients: Slow-cooked caramelized onions, goat cheese, cream, thyme.
  
• Why it works: The contrast between sweet onions and tangy cheese is irresistible.
  
• Flavor tip: Top with crushed walnuts for crunch.
  

5. Mushrooms & Fontina with Truffle Oil

Earthy, melty, and elegant—perfect for a dinner party.

• Ingredients: Sautéed mushrooms (like cremini or shiitake), shredded Fontina, garlic, truffle oil.
  
• Why it works: Fontina melts beautifully, and truffle oil elevates the dish.
  
• Flavor tip: Use a mix of wild mushrooms for depth.
  

6. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tex-Mex

A surprising, healthy twist that’s hearty and flavorful.

• Ingredients: Mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, cheddar cheese.
  
• Why it works: Smoky spices and sweet potato create a rich, savory bite.
  
• Flavor tip: Serve with a cilantro-lime crema on top.
  

7. Broccoli, Cheddar & Greek Yogurt

A creamy, tangy, and fiber-rich option the whole family will enjoy.

• Ingredients: Steamed chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt, garlic powder.
  
• Why it works: The Greek yogurt adds protein and a slight tang.
  
• Flavor tip: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top for crunch.
  

8. Roasted Red Pepper & Feta

A Mediterranean favorite packed with color and flavor.

• Ingredients: Roasted red peppers (chopped), crumbled feta, cream cheese, basil.
  
• Why it works: Feta gives a salty punch while red pepper adds sweetness.
  
• Flavor tip: Use fresh basil to brighten the flavor.
  

9. Pesto Chicken & Mozzarella

A savory, protein-rich choice that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

• Ingredients: Shredded rotisserie chicken, basil pesto, shredded mozzarella, cream.
  
• Why it works: Pesto infuses everything with herbal freshness.
  
• Flavor tip: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for texture and color.
  

10. Eggplant, Ricotta & Marinara

A vegetarian twist that’s hearty and satisfying.

• Ingredients: Roasted eggplant (cubed), ricotta, parmesan, garlic, marinara sauce.
  
• Why it works: Eggplant adds meaty texture without the meat.
  
• Flavor tip: Use a chunky, homemade marinara for maximum flavor.
  

Bonus Tips for Stuffing Manicotti

Can You Make These Ahead?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the manicotti up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. Add sauce before baking.

Can You Freeze Stuffed Manicotti?

Absolutely. Freeze the assembled, uncooked manicotti in a baking dish. When ready to eat, bake from frozen—just add an extra 15–20 minutes.

Which Pasta Type Works Best?

Traditional manicotti tubes or cannelloni are ideal, but lasagna sheets rolled around the filling work great too.

What Sauce Should I Use?

• Classic marinara: Works with most fillings.
  
• Alfredo or béchamel: Pairs well with veggie or chicken fillings.
  
• Pesto drizzle: Great with Mediterranean and cheese stuffings.
  

Conclusion

Manicotti is more than just pasta and cheese. With the right stuffing, it can become a centerpiece dish full of character and flavor. These 10 delicious manicotti stuffings bring new life to a traditional favorite—and now it’s your turn to try them out.

So grab your baking dish and get creative. You just might find a new favorite combo you never expected!