Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta

Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta is a classic Italian dish featuring tender pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, all baked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. It is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta is the ideal combination of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors wrapped up in a delicious pasta shell. The creamy ricotta complements the earthy spinach, while the tomato sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast. This dish can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy evenings or entertaining guests. Plus, it is vegetarian-friendly, offering a nutritious and filling meal that appeals to a variety of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cannelloni pasta tubes
• Fresh spinach
• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Egg
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Tomato passata or marinara sauce
• Olive oil
• Garlic

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Allow to cool slightly, then chop finely.
4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Fill the uncooked cannelloni tubes with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon.
6. Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish in a single layer.
8. Cover the cannelloni with more tomato sauce and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach and ricotta filling for an earthy flavor.
• Incorporate a bechamel sauce layer between the cannelloni and tomato sauce for a creamier texture.
• Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different taste and added nutrients.
• Mix a little feta cheese with the ricotta for a tangier flavor.
• Spice up the tomato sauce with a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cannelloni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat for 2–3 minutes, checking periodically.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cannelloni from drying out during baking?

Ensure the cannelloni are fully covered with sauce and bake covered with foil for most of the cooking time.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach thoroughly before using it in the filling.

Is it necessary to cook the cannelloni before stuffing?

No, most recipes use dry cannelloni tubes that cook during baking as they absorb moisture from the sauce.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and Parmesan.

Can I prepare Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cannelloni pasta tubes and ensure your tomato sauce is gluten-free.

Can I freeze Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta?

Yes, assemble the cannelloni and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What can I serve with Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta?

Serve it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How do I avoid soggy cannelloni?

Use a thicker tomato sauce and avoid overstuffing the tubes with filling.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, cooked ground beef or Italian sausage can be added to the ricotta and spinach mixture for a heartier version.

Conclusion

Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta is a timeless, comforting dish that brings the best of Italian flavors to your table. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight family meal or entertaining guests, this satisfying recipe is sure to impress. Its versatility, make-ahead convenience, and rich, creamy taste make it a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.

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