Imagine sinking your fork into a plate of Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni, where the creamy ricotta hugs the tender pasta tubes, and the vibrant spinach adds a pop of color and flavor. The smell wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone weak in the knees, with hints of garlic and fresh herbs dancing through the air like they’re performing a culinary ballet. For more inspiration, check out this dessert recipes recipe.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use store-bought pasta for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni?
- What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
- How long should I bake spinach ricotta cannelloni?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my family had a tradition of Italian nights where we would gather around the dinner table, feasting on dishes like these. It was an occasion filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and the occasional food fight—just kidding! But really, nothing brings people together quite like a comforting plate of cannelloni. Trust me; the anticipation will have you dreaming about this dish long before you take that first heavenly bite. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is easy to prepare and perfect for impressing guests
- Its rich flavors will delight your taste buds while looking gorgeous on any table
- This dish is versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone complaining!
Every time I serve this dish, my friends rave about how delicious it is. It has become a staple at our potlucks and family gatherings.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green spinach; it adds color and nutrients while wilting beautifully during cooking.
Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture that melts in your mouth.
Lasagna Sheets: You can use either fresh or dried sheets; just ensure they’re wide enough to hold generous fillings.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for that irresistible nutty flavor—trust me; it’s worth it!
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce to elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; sauté until fragrant for maximum flavor impact.
Eggs: They help bind everything together while adding richness to the filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep Your Ingredients: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and chop the spinach finely before mixing it with ricotta in a mixing bowl.
Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in the chopped spinach until wilted—about 3-4 minutes—and remove from heat.
Create the Filling: In your mixing bowl, combine sautéed spinach with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined; you’re looking for creamy goodness here!
Assemble Cannelloni Tubes: Take each lasagna sheet and fill it generously with about 2 tablespoons of your cheesy filling. Roll them up tightly but gently so as not to tear them apart.
Add Sauce to Baking Dish: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish—this prevents sticking! Place each filled cannelloni seam-side down onto the sauce.
Bake Until Golden: Cover with more marinara sauce and sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—your kitchen will smell divine!
Now you are ready to indulge in these delightful Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you share this crowd-pleaser with family or friends—you might even want to keep it all to yourself!
You Must Know
- Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni not only offers a delightful flavor but also packs a nutritious punch
- The combination of creamy ricotta with fresh spinach creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love
- Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy family dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your filling while the pasta cooks. Assemble the cannelloni, followed by layering sauce and cheese for an even bake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes to enhance flavors. Spice things up with herbs like basil or oregano!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain that cheesy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked cannelloni, ensure the pasta is al dente before filling it
- A little extra salt in the water can elevate flavor
- Layering sauce helps keep it moist during baking, enhancing texture and taste
Sometimes, I sneak in extra veggies just to see who notices—spoiler alert: my kids always do! That’s when I tell them they’re “super-powered” and they eat it all up.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pasta for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni?
Absolutely! Store-bought pasta saves time and makes this recipe easier.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese works well as alternatives for ricotta.
How long should I bake spinach ricotta cannelloni?
Bake at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting Italian dish featuring tender pasta tubes filled with a creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach mixture, all topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe brings rich flavors and delightful textures to your table. With easy preparation and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 lasagna sheets
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, combine sautéed spinach, ricotta, half of the Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Fill each lasagna sheet with about 2 tablespoons of filling and roll tightly.
- Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and place filled cannelloni seam-side down.
- Top with more marinara sauce and remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cannelloni (100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg