Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

This Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is an indulgent and comforting dish, with perfectly cooked pasta tubes stuffed with a rich blend of creamy ricotta and sautéed spinach. The melty mozzarella and savory parmesan on top add the perfect finishing touch, making each bite a cheesy, comforting experience.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences. For a twist, add sautéed mushrooms or swap out the spinach for another leafy green like kale. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner party, this cannelloni will certainly leave everyone satisfied and impressed.

Full Recipe:

12 cannelloni tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the cannelloni tubes in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 8 minutes, or until slightly al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.
Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach mixture, nutmeg, black pepper, salt, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
Stuff the cooled cannelloni tubes with the ricotta and spinach mixture.
Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in a single layer, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil and parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour

Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Introduction to Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a classic Italian dish that combines tender pasta tubes stuffed with a rich and creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, all baked in a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. Known for its comforting, hearty, and delicious qualities, it’s a dish that has captured the hearts of many around the world. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—yet its flavors are anything but basic. This perfect balance of cheese, spinach, and pasta makes for a satisfying meal that can be served at any time of the year.

The Origins of Cannelloni

Cannelloni, which translates to “large tubes” in Italian, is a type of pasta typically stuffed with a variety of fillings. Originating from Italy, this dish is traditionally made by filling pasta tubes with ricotta cheese, spinach, or meat and then smothering them in tomato sauce before baking. While the exact origin of cannelloni is debated, it’s widely believed to have been developed in the early 20th century in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Naples. Today, it is a staple in Italian cuisine and has evolved to include numerous variations, from meat-based fillings to vegetarian options like the spinach and ricotta version.

Why Spinach and Ricotta?

The combination of spinach and ricotta is a timeless one. The light and creamy texture of the ricotta cheese pairs wonderfully with the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of spinach, creating a harmonious filling that is both rich and fresh. This pairing not only tastes great but is also a nutritious option, with spinach providing an abundance of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. The mildness of ricotta complements the robust flavors of spinach, offering a filling that is smooth, creamy, and comforting.

The Perfect Pasta: Cannelloni vs. Manicotti

While spinach and ricotta can be used in various pasta shapes, the large tube-like pasta known as cannelloni is the traditional choice for this dish. Cannelloni is thicker and sturdier than its cousin, manicotti, which is usually slightly more delicate. The sturdiness of cannelloni allows it to hold the filling without breaking, even when stuffed and covered with sauce, while manicotti, though similar, is often more prone to tearing. Both options are excellent, but the choice largely depends on personal preference.

Variations on Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. While the traditional filling is a simple blend of spinach and ricotta, there are numerous variations you can experiment with to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Herbs and Spices: Adding herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate the flavor profile. A pinch of nutmeg is also a common addition to enhance the richness of the ricotta filling.
Cheese: While ricotta is the standard choice, you can blend in other cheeses such as mozzarella or parmesan to give the filling a creamier or more flavorful kick.
Meat: For those who want to add a bit of protein to their cannelloni, ground meat such as beef, chicken, or sausage can be incorporated into the filling along with spinach and ricotta. This variation turns the dish into a heartier, more filling meal.
Vegan Version: For a plant-based twist, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with a vegan alternative made from tofu or cashews. Similarly, using dairy-free cheese options will make this a perfect meal for those following a vegan diet.
Sauce Options: While marinara is the most common sauce to pair with spinach ricotta cannelloni, you can also try it with a white béchamel sauce or even a creamy pesto sauce for a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

Making spinach ricotta cannelloni is not difficult, but there are a few tips to ensure the best results.

Cook the pasta al dente: Cannelloni should be cooked just enough to soften it, but still firm enough to hold its shape when stuffed. Overcooking the pasta may cause it to tear or become too soft, ruining the dish.
Sauté the spinach first: Although spinach can be used raw, sautéing it first helps remove excess moisture and ensures a better texture in the filling. It also intensifies the flavor, giving the dish more depth.
Use a piping bag or spoon for stuffing: Stuffing cannelloni can be a bit tricky, but using a piping bag or a spoon to gently fill the tubes will make the process much easier. Be sure not to overstuff, as the pasta can burst during cooking.
Don’t skip the sauce layer: Ensure that the bottom of your baking dish is covered with sauce before adding the stuffed pasta. This not only prevents the cannelloni from sticking to the pan but also adds flavor to the bottom layer of the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, enhancing the meal and creating a complete dining experience.

Salads: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette is a perfect side to cut through the richness of the cannelloni. The fresh, peppery flavor of arugula complements the creamy filling of the pasta.
Garlic Bread: No Italian meal is complete without a side of garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread makes for the perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce from the cannelloni.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers are another excellent side dish. The roasted flavors balance out the richness of the pasta while adding color and texture to the meal.
Wine Pairings: Pair your cannelloni with a glass of Italian red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or a light Pinot Noir. The acidity and fruitiness of these wines will complement the tomato sauce and balance the richness of the cheese.

Conclusion

Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is more than just a simple pasta dish—it’s a comforting meal that brings together the best of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this dish will always impress. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and flavorful sauce is a true testament to the power of simple, quality ingredients. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and endless opportunities for customization, it’s a dish that will always remain a favorite for pasta lovers around the world. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the many variations, Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.