Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Spinach and ricotta cannelloni is one of the most iconic dishes in traditional Italian cuisine. This vegetarian baked pasta dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

With a creamy ricotta and spinach filling and a flavorful tomato sauce, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

In this recipe, I’ll show you step-by-step how to make this delicious baked pasta, along with tips and variations to customize it to your taste.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (8 oz) ricotta cheese
• 10 oz fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed, and well-drained)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups (16 oz) tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 dried cannelloni tubes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

How to Make Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the spinach with a drizzle of olive oil for 3-5 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
2. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, egg, and cooled spinach. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the tomato purée, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 3: Fill the Cannelloni

1. Fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta and spinach mixture. For a cleaner and easier process, use a piping bag without a tip.
2. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a lightly greased baking dish in a single layer.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour half of the tomato sauce into the bottom of the dish.
2. Place the filled cannelloni on top, then cover with the remaining tomato sauce.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35 minutes. For a golden, crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: ~400 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g

Ingredient Benefits

• Ricotta Cheese: High in calcium and protein, making it a great choice for vegetarian meals.
• Spinach: A fantastic source of iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, known for its heart-health benefits.
• Pasta: A good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Zoé’s Tips

• For perfectly cooked cannelloni, make sure they are completely covered in sauce. This helps them soften while baking.
• Prefer a spicier sauce? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
• Time-saver tip: Use frozen spinach (thawed and well-drained) instead of fresh.
• Want an extra creamy bake? Mix a bit of heavy cream into the tomato sauce before layering.

Best Side Dishes for Cannelloni

• Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy bread is perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers to enhance the meal.
• Dry White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy flavors.

Variations of Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

• With Meat: Add ground beef or chicken to the filling for a heartier dish.
• Creamy Sauce Option: Swap the tomato sauce for a béchamel sauce with a hint of nutmeg.
• Cheese Blend: Try a mix of gorgonzola and Emmental for extra depth of flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cannelloni shells made from rice or corn flour.

Baked spinach and ricotta cannelloni is a true classic of Italian cuisine. Easy to prepare, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal with its creamy filling and golden cheese topping.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious vegetarian dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is a must-try. Feel free to experiment with variations and serve it with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your meal!