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Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe

Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a traditional Italian baked pasta dish made by stuffing cannelloni tubes with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach. The filled pasta is covered with tomato sauce, sprinkled with cheese, and baked until golden and bubbling. The result is a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 14 ounces 400g ricotta cheese
  • 10 ounces 300g spinach, cooked and drained
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 24 ounces 700g tomato passata or tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
  • 12 cannelloni tubes
  • cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Spoon or piping bag
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and evenly combined, then set aside while preparing the sauce.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (1)
Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
  1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the onion for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook briefly before stirring in the tomato passata, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (6)
Step 3: Fill the Cannelloni
  1. Transfer the spinach and ricotta mixture into a piping bag or spoon it carefully into each cannelloni tube. Fill the tubes completely but avoid overpacking them to prevent splitting during baking.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (5)
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
  1. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce across the bottom of a baking dish and arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the pasta, ensuring every tube is well covered.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (4)
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
  1. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the cannelloni. The cheese will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (3)
Step 6: Bake and Serve
  1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until the pasta is tender and the cheese is golden brown. Let the cannelloni rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling and sauce to settle.
    Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Steps (2)

Video

Notes

  • Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the spinach before mixing it with the ricotta.
  • Use whole-milk ricotta for a richer and creamier filling.
  • Cover all the cannelloni with sauce to prevent the pasta from drying out.
  • Freshly grate your cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Let the baked cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Use a piping bag to fill the tubes quickly and neatly.
  • Taste the filling before stuffing and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbling for the best texture.