There’s just something so comforting about homemade pasta dishes, isn’t there? When I think of cozy family meals, my mind instantly drifts to my mom’s spinach ricotta cannelloni recipe. This dish is the epitome of warmth and love, combining creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all snugly wrapped in tender pasta tubes. I remember the aroma wafting through our kitchen as it baked, making it impossible to resist diving in right off the table! It’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight feast. Trust me, once you try this spinach ricotta cannelloni recipe, you’ll want it on your dinner table time and time again. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this spinach ricotta cannelloni shine! Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (creamy and fresh is best!)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (feel free to pack it in for extra greens!)
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, melty topping)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty kick)
- 1 egg (this helps bind the filling together)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a little extra flavor punch)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, season it up!)
Make sure to have everything ready before you dive into the cooking process—it makes the whole experience so much smoother!
How to Prepare Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe
Ready to dive into this delicious spinach ricotta cannelloni? Let’s break it down step by step for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well blended and creamy. This filling is where all the magic happens, so don’t rush it! If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or some fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Trust me, it’s totally worth it!
Fill the Cannelloni
Now, let’s get those cannelloni tubes filled! I like to use a small spoon or a piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy) to make this step easier. Just carefully spoon or pipe the ricotta mixture into each cannelloni tube, making sure to pack it in without overfilling. It’s a bit like stuffing a little pillow, and you want them cozy but not bursting at the seams! If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works just as well. Just remember, a little patience goes a long way here!
Assemble the Dish
Next up, it’s time to assemble! Pour a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish—this helps prevent the cannelloni from sticking. Then, carefully place the filled cannelloni in a single layer on top of the sauce. Don’t crowd them, as they’ll need a little room to breathe and expand. Once they’re all lined up, cover them generously with the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle that glorious mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. The more cheese, the better, right?
Baking Instructions
Cover the dish with aluminum foil (this keeps everything nice and moist) and pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes. After that, it’s time to remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes or so, watching for that beautiful bubbly, golden cheese on top. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and slightly browned, and the sauce is bubbling. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make it hard to wait for it to cool down a bit before digging in. Enjoy every cheesy, spinach-packed bite!
Tips for Success
To make your spinach ricotta cannelloni truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skimp on seasoning—taste the filling before stuffing the tubes; a little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference. If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works as a great substitute; just blend it until smooth. For a fun twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Also, keep an eye on the baking time! Ovens can vary, so check for that bubbly cheese and golden top a few minutes early to avoid overcooking. Lastly, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven; it helps everything set up nicely and makes serving a breeze. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe
Alright, let’s break down the numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delicious spinach ricotta cannelloni recipe, based on typical ingredients used:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 18g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands or ingredients you choose. It’s always a good idea to double-check if you’re tracking your nutrition closely. Enjoy this hearty meal guilt-free, knowing it packs a nutritious punch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready to bake!
- Vegetarian-friendly: Packed with nutritious spinach and creamy ricotta, it’s a great choice for meatless meals.
- Rich in flavor: The combination of cheeses, fresh spinach, and marinara sauce creates a comforting and satisfying dish.
- Family favorite: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Make-ahead option: You can assemble it in advance and bake it later, saving you time on busy nights.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or veggies to the filling for a personal touch!
FAQ About Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe
Got questions about this delicious spinach ricotta cannelloni recipe? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you along the way.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cannelloni and cover it with foil, then pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze spinach ricotta cannelloni?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works great! Just blend it until it’s smooth, or you can even use a mixture of cream cheese and yogurt for a tangy twist. The filling will still be creamy and delicious!
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Of course! I love a good homemade sauce, but store-bought marinara can save you time and still taste fantastic. Just choose a brand you enjoy, or even try adding some fresh herbs to it for a little extra flavor!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s just as comforting the second time around!
What can I serve with cannelloni?
A simple side salad or some garlic bread pairs beautifully with spinach ricotta cannelloni. You can also serve it with roasted veggies for a complete meal. Get creative!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your delicious spinach ricotta cannelloni is ready to dig into, let’s think about what to serve alongside it! Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the flavors beautifully:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the crunch of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up that marinara sauce!
- Simple Salad: A fresh mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Think zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, roasted until caramelized and bursting with flavor.
- Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing side.
- Steamed Broccoli: A quick and healthy side that pairs well with the creamy cannelloni!
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer before the main event.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood and what you have on hand. Enjoy your meal with family and friends—it’s all about sharing the love!
Print
Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe: A Cozy Family Favorite
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious spinach and ricotta cannelloni dish, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill the cannelloni tubes with the ricotta mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the filled cannelloni in the dish.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- You can use frozen spinach, just thaw and drain it first.
- Try adding herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: spinach ricotta cannelloni recipe