cannelloni with spinach and ricotta recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best cannelloni with spinach and ricotta recipe

I have been making this cannelloni with spinach and ricotta recipe for years and it is always a hit with my family. Even my picky eaters ask for seconds which says a lot. The creamy ricotta and earthy spinach filling wrapped in tender pasta tubes and baked in a rich tomato sauce is comfort food at its best. It is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday gathering. Plus the spinach adds a good dose of iron and vitamins so you can feel good about serving it. This recipe is simple to put together and the results are always impressive.

Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta

4.6 from 643 votes

Classic Italian stuffed pasta tubes filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is hearty satisfying and perfect for family dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cannelloni

12 cannelloni tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry
1 egg
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2Cook the cannelloni tubes according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3In a mixing bowl combine the ricotta cheese, spinach, egg, parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Mix well.
4In a skillet heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano and sugar. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
6Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Place the filled tubes in the baking dish.
7Pour the remaining sauce over the cannelloni. Sprinkle with extra parmesan if desired.
8Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Mixing bowl
Baking dish 9×13
Skillet
Spoon or piping bag

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

You can use no boil lasagna sheets cut into strips if you cannot find cannelloni tubes. For a richer sauce add a splash of cream.

Watch Video Of How Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta Works

This cannelloni with spinach and ricotta recipe is a go to for me when I want something that feels special but is not too complicated. It works well for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home and always gets compliments. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cannelloni with Spinach and Ricotta

1. Can I make this cannelloni ahead of time?

Yes you can assemble the dish completely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time if it is cold from the fridge.

2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely. If using fresh spinach wilt about 5 ounces in a skillet with a little water then drain well and chop before mixing with the ricotta.

3. What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or a soft goat cheese for a different flavor. The texture will be similar.

4. How do I prevent the cannelloni from sticking together?

After boiling the tubes toss them with a little olive oil and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet so they do not stick.

5. Can I freeze the baked cannelloni?

Yes let it cool completely then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until hot.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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