There’s something truly special about a bubbling, golden-brown dish straight from the oven. And when that dish happens to be homemade cannelloni, filled with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and herbs, smothered in a rich tomato sauce—well, let’s just say it’s pure comfort food heaven!
This recipe is one of those family favorites we come back to again and again. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, tangy, and fresh—a dish that brings people together around the table with that unmistakable “Mmmm, what’s that amazing smell?” moment.
Let’s dive into why we love this Italian classic and how you can make it perfectly at home! 🍽️
🇮🇹 Why This Spinach & Ricotta Cannelloni is a Must-Try
If you’ve never made cannelloni before, don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks! Stuffing pasta tubes with delicious filling might sound fancy, but it’s actually quite fun (and so worth it). Here’s why this dish deserves a place in your kitchen:
✔ Classic Italian flavors – Ricotta, spinach, and tomato sauce? It’s a tried-and-true combination for a reason!
✔ Creamy & Cheesy Goodness – A mix of ricotta and parmesan makes for a melt-in-your-mouth filling.
✔ Oven-Baked Perfection – That golden, bubbly top layer? Absolute magic.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep everything ahead, pop it in the fridge, and just bake when ready!
✔ A Crowd-Pleaser – Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always impresses.
🌿 A Love Letter to Spinach and Ricotta
We love spinach and ricotta together—it’s one of those perfect pairings that always delivers.
🥬 Spinach: Adds a nutritious boost, packed with iron, fiber, and vitamins.
🧀 Ricotta: Creamy, mild, and slightly sweet—its texture is just chef’s kiss!
🌿 Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of basil, oregano, or nutmeg makes the flavors sing!
Together, they create a filling that’s light yet satisfying, fresh yet indulgent—the best of both worlds!
🍅 The Secret to a Rich, Flavorful Tomato Sauce
Let’s talk about the soul of this dish—the tomato sauce. A good sauce makes ALL the difference. Here’s how we make it extra special:
✨ Use High-Quality Tomatoes – Whether San Marzano or your favorite brand, good tomatoes = rich, bold sauce.
✨ Garlic & Onion – The classic base for any great tomato sauce.
✨ A Pinch of Sugar – Balances acidity and brings out natural sweetness.
✨ A Splash of Red Wine – Totally optional, but it adds depth and richness!
✨ Slow Simmering – Letting the sauce cook low and slow develops incredible flavor.
This homemade tomato sauce takes the cannelloni to the next level—trust us on this one! 🍅✨
🏡 Homemade Cannelloni vs. Store-Bought
Wondering if you should buy ready-made cannelloni tubes or go for fresh pasta sheets? Here’s the scoop:
🟢 Dried Cannelloni Tubes – Easy to use and hold their shape well. Just make sure to use extra sauce so they soften perfectly!
🟢 Fresh Pasta Sheets – More delicate, but if you’re up for rolling your own cannelloni, it’s a game-changer!
Either way, the flavor is what truly matters, and this filling + sauce combo never fails.
🍷 Perfect Pairings – What to Serve with Your Cannelloni
Want to turn your meal into a full Italian feast? Here are our favorite pairings:
🥗 Fresh Green Salad – A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with balsamic dressing.
🥖 Garlic Bread – Because, let’s be real, we all love a little extra bread for dipping.
🍷 A Glass of Red Wine – A medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese complements the dish beautifully.
Hosting a dinner? Add a side of roasted veggies or an antipasto platter for a true Italian-inspired experience!
🍽️ Make it Your Own – Variations & Additions
This spinach & ricotta cannelloni recipe is already pretty perfect, but here are some creative variations to make it even more exciting:
🔥 Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of chili flakes to the tomato sauce for a subtle heat.
🌰 Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top for extra texture.
🍄 Hearty Touch – Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or eggplant into the filling.
🧄 Extra Flavor Boost – Add a little roasted garlic to the ricotta mixture.
🌱 Fresh Herb Finish – Top with fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for a vibrant touch.
These small changes make the dish even more versatile – try them out and find your favorite version!
👩🍳 Our Secret Tip: Reheating Leftover Cannelloni
If you have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare 😉), you can easily reheat them the next day.
💡 Tip: Place the cannelloni in an oven-safe dish, add a little extra tomato sauce and a splash of water or vegetable broth, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes. This keeps them moist and just as delicious as fresh!
❤️ Final Thoughts: A Comfort Food Classic for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy Sunday meal, or the highlight of your next dinner party, this spinach & ricotta cannelloni is always a winner. The combination of creamy filling, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible!
So grab your baking dish and indulge in this Italian classic – Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹🍝
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese for creamy richness
- 2 cups fresh spinach finely chopped, for a nutrient boost
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, umami depth
- 1 large egg beaten, to bind the filling
- Salt and pepper to taste, for seasoning
- Nutmeg a pinch, for warmth and complexity
For the Cannelloni:
- 12-14 cannelloni tubes ready for stuffing
- 1 tbsp olive oil for greasing
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small onion finely chopped, for sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic minced, for aromatic foundation
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes for the sauce base
- 1 tsp sugar to balance acidity
- 1 tsp dried oregano for herbaceous flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Baking:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for a melty top
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the Parmesan cheese, egg, a pinch of nutmeg, salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Fill the Cannelloni: Spoon the spinach and ricotta mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the mixture.
- Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer. Cover with the remaining tomato sauce. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is great for melting, adding a mixture of cheeses can enhance the flavor. Consider blending mozzarella with more Parmesan on top for a richer taste or even a bit of smoked provolone for a smoky note.
Enjoy crafting this Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni, a dish that promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors, baked to perfection for a meal that’s sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Oven-Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
🍝 Can I Use Fresh Lasagna Sheets Instead of Dried Cannelloni Tubes?
Yes! Fresh lasagna sheets can be rolled around the filling instead of using dried cannelloni tubes. Just be sure to slightly undercook them if pre-boiling to keep them sturdy.
🌱 Is This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian! It features a classic ricotta and spinach filling with a rich tomato sauce. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can substitute ricotta with a dairy-free alternative or blended tofu.
🧀 Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional, you can mix in mascarpone for extra creaminess or use cottage cheese for a lighter version. A sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan on top makes it even more delicious.
🍅 Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the cannelloni and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
🔥 Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Definitely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
🌿 What Can I Serve with This Dish?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments to balance out this hearty dish.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni—a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful classic! 🍝🧀🌿
I think so delicious and colourful!