Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni (Ultimate Comfort Baked Pasta)
If you’re looking for a rich, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish, this spinach and ricotta cannelloni recipe is exactly what you need. Made with tender pasta tubes stuffed with a creamy spinach and ricotta filling, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, this dish is the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, preparing meals ahead of a busy week, or simply craving a satisfying vegetarian dish, this easy baked cannelloni will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 250g fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
- 400g ricotta cheese
- 200g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 500ml tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready for baking.
2. Cook the Spinach
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
Add the fresh spinach and cook until fully wilted. This should take about 3–5 minutes.
Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then gently squeeze out any excess liquid to avoid a watery filling.
3. Make the Creamy Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked spinach
- Ricotta cheese
- Salt and black pepper
Mix until smooth and well combined. The texture should be creamy but thick enough to hold its shape.
4. Fill the Cannelloni
Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
Tip: A piping bag (or even a ziplock bag with the corner cut) makes this step much faster and cleaner.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the pasta, ensuring all pieces are well covered.
This helps the pasta cook evenly and stay soft.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over the top. This will create that irresistible golden, bubbly crust.
7. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly crispy on top.
8. Rest and Serve
Let the cannelloni rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve.
Health & Nutrition Benefits
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Spinach is packed with iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- High in protein: Ricotta and mozzarella provide a good source of protein, helping keep you full longer.
- Balanced comfort meal: Combines carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in one satisfying dish.
- Vegetarian-friendly: A great meat-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
- Customizable: Easily adapt ingredients for healthier or dietary-specific versions.
Expert Tips for the Best Cannelloni
- Drain spinach thoroughly: Excess water can ruin the texture of your filling.
- Use quality ricotta: A creamy, thick ricotta makes a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t skip the sauce base: Prevents sticking and adds moisture during baking.
- Cover while baking: Keeps the pasta tender and prevents the top from burning too early.
- Add Parmesan for extra flavor: Mix a little into the filling or sprinkle on top.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Variations You Can Try
- Add fresh basil or oregano for a burst of freshness
- Use whole wheat cannelloni for more fiber
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables
- Make it creamy: Mix a little béchamel sauce with the tomato sauce
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes for a slight kick
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked spinach and ricotta cannelloni hot with:
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread or crusty bread
- A light soup for a complete meal
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 180°C or microwave until heated through
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is:
- Easy to prepare
- Budget-friendly
- Family-approved
- Perfect for meal prep
- Packed with comforting, cheesy goodness
