Picture this: tender pasta tubes generously filled with a luscious blend of creamy ricotta and vibrant spinach, bathed in a velvety sauce that melts effortlessly on your tongue. The Indulgent Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni isn’t just another pasta dish-it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor wrapped in golden perfection. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home chef, this recipe guide will walk you through every step to create a dish that feels both elegant and soul-satisfyingly rich. Prepare to elevate your dinner table with a symphony of textures and tastes that turn a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
Indulgent creamy spinach & ricotta cannelloni offers a harmonious blend of velvety textures and vibrant flavors that create a truly memorable Italian-inspired dining experience. Originating from the rustic kitchens of Italy, this luscious pasta dish has evolved into a comfort food staple, enchanting taste buds with its rich filling and satisfyingly creamy sauce. With every bite, the tender cannelloni tubes cradle a blend of fresh spinach and supple ricotta, accentuated by subtle hints of nutmeg and garlic-making this recipe a dazzling centerpiece for any festive gathering or cozy weeknight dinner.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield
- Serves 6 generous portions
Difficulty Level
- Medium – perfect for home cooks ready to elevate their pasta-making skills
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes (pre-boiled or no-boil, depending on preference)
- 500g fresh spinach (washed and roughly chopped)
- 400g ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 700ml béchamel sauce (rich and creamy white sauce)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook down until wilted and most of the moisture evaporates, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Transfer spinach mixture to a mixing bowl. Mix in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the cannelloni: If using pre-boiled cannelloni tubes, carefully fill each tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a piping bag or small spoon. If using no-boil tubes, ensure the filling is not too wet to avoid sogginess during baking.
- Assemble the bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the base of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay the filled cannelloni tubes side by side in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining béchamel sauce generously over the cannelloni, ensuring they are completely covered for a creamy finish. Sprinkle additional Parmesan over the top for a golden, gratin effect.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. For an extra crispy finish, grill for the last 3-5 minutes-but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a bright herbal note.
Tips for Success
- Spinach prep: Ensure spinach is well-drained to avoid watery filling-use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture.
- Ricotta quality: Fresh, creamy ricotta elevates the luscious texture; opt for whole milk varieties over low-fat versions.
- Filling consistency: If the filling feels too loose, add a handful of grated Parmesan or breadcrumbs to thicken slightly.
- Make-ahead: Fill and assemble cannelloni up to 24 hours in advance; store covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
- Vegan twist: Substitute ricotta with tofu blended with nutritional yeast and almond milk, and use vegan béchamel sauce for an inclusive version.
- Freezing tip: Freeze uncooked filled cannelloni on a baking sheet individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Present your creamy spinach & ricotta cannelloni alongside lightly dressed rocket salad or sautéed cherry tomatoes for a fresh contrast. Garnish with torn basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to amplify its rich flavors. A crisp, chilled glass of sparkling mineral water or a non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice brings a pleasant lift without overpowering the dish’s delicate creaminess. For dessert, a zesty lemon sorbet refreshes the palate beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
Explore a similar creamy spinach and ricotta lasagna recipe for another comforting baked pasta delight.
For more insight on the health benefits of spinach and ricotta combined, visit the Healthline nutrition guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Indulgent Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe Guide
Q1: What makes this Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni recipe indulgent?
A1: The indulgence lies in the luscious, velvety ricotta filling blended with tender spinach, all wrapped lovingly inside delicate pasta tubes. It’s crowned with a creamy béchamel sauce and gooey melted cheese, creating a rich, comforting dish that feels like a warm, cheesy hug.
Q2: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! The spinach and ricotta filling can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and when ready, simply fill your cannelloni shells before baking. This makes your cooking process seamless and stress-free.
Q3: Should I use fresh or frozen spinach?
A3: Both work well, but fresh spinach offers a brighter, fresher taste. If using frozen, make sure to thaw thoroughly and squeeze out all excess moisture to avoid a watery filling. A little extra seasoning can help enhance the flavor if using frozen spinach.
Q4: Any tip for perfectly cooked pasta tubes?
A4: If you use dried cannelloni pasta, pre-cooking them slightly helps prevent dryness after baking. However, no-boil cannelloni are a convenient option that cooks perfectly in the oven absorbing all the creamy sauce. Just ensure your sauce is slightly runny to allow for this.
Q5: Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
A5: Definitely! For an extra flavor twist, try adding finely chopped garlic, nutmeg, lemon zest, or even toasted pine nuts. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also complement the creamy ricotta beautifully, elevating the overall taste.
Q6: How do I achieve that golden bubbly cheese topping?
A6: A blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese works wonders. Spread a generous layer of béchamel sauce over the filled cannelloni, sprinkle your cheese mix on top, and bake until bubbling and golden. For an extra crisp crust, finish under the broiler for a minute or two-watch closely!
Q7: What would be a perfect side dish to serve with this cannelloni?
A7: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple tomato and basil salad also complement the creamy texture and add a refreshing, vibrant contrast.
Q8: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
A8: Yes, it is! This recipe uses plant-based spinach and dairy cheeses with no meat, making it an excellent indulgent vegetarian entrée. For a vegan version, substitute ricotta with cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
This Q&A can help readers navigate the creamy layers of the Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni recipe with confidence, inspiring them to create an indulgent and memorable homemade feast.
In Retrospect
As the last bite of this indulgent creamy spinach and ricotta cannelloni melts away, you’ll find more than just a delicious meal lingering-there’s a warmth born from crafting something truly comforting and wholesome. This recipe guide has unraveled the secrets to balancing rich, velvety textures with fresh, vibrant greens, inviting you to transform simple ingredients into a feast that feels like a cozy embrace. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, these luscious layers promise to elevate your culinary repertoire and delight every palate at the table. So roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite cheeses and greens, and let the art of creating cannelloni remind you that sometimes, the most indulgent dishes are those made with love and a touch of creamy magic.
