If you’re craving a dish that beautifully combines comfort and elegance, you’re in for a treat with this Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni. Picture tender pasta tubes generously stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta, sautéed spinach, garlic, and Parmesan, all nestled under a luscious tomato basil sauce and crowned with golden melted mozzarella. This recipe is inspired by the heartwarming flavors of traditional Italian cuisine, making it a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner or a special occasion. It’s satisfying, full of layers of texture, and loaded with vibrant, fresh flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni shine. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that bring this dish to life.
- Ricotta cheese: Provides the creamy, luscious base for the filling with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a tender earthiness that complements the ricotta perfectly.
- Garlic: Infuses the filling with aromatic warmth and depth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the filling with a sharp, nutty accent and richness.
- Fresh basil: Brings a fragrant brightness to the tomato sauce, balancing acidity with sweetness.
- Tomato basil sauce: The rich, tangy coating that ties the entire dish together while keeping it moist.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating an irresistible golden crust.
- Cannelloni pasta tubes: Tender yet sturdy tubes perfect for stuffing and holding all those delicious flavors.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing spinach and garlic, adding subtle fruitiness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring every element into harmony.
How to Make Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by sautéing fresh spinach and garlic in olive oil until the spinach is just wilted and fragrant. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with ricotta and Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. This creamy, vibrant filling is what makes the Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni so irresistibly satisfying.
Step 2: Stuff the Cannelloni Tubes
Gently fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Take your time here – the goal is to get the tubes fully filled but not bursting, so each bite is packed with creamy goodness without falling apart during baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread a generous layer of tomato basil sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. This will keep the pasta moist while adding layers of fresh, tangy flavor. Lay the stuffed cannelloni side by side on top of the sauce for even cooking.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Cover the arranged tubes with more tomato basil sauce, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella on top. Bake in a preheated oven until the sauce bubbles and the mozzarella is golden brown and deliciously melty—about 30 minutes. The baking process melds all the flavors beautifully, giving you that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a few whole basil leaves on top adds a pop of color and an incredible herbal fragrance right before serving. You might also add a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan for an extra hit of savoriness.
Side Dishes
Pair your Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to contrast the creamy richness. Crusty garlic bread on the side is also a classic choice, perfect for soaking up those delicious tomato juices left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve individual portions in small, decorative casserole dishes with a fresh basil leaf on top. Or create a charming buffet-style spread, placing the whole dish in the center surrounded by complementary sides, inviting everyone to dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni tastes just as delightful the next day. Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully! After baking and cooling to room temperature, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that comforting texture.
Reheating
Reheat portions gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This keeps the cheese melty and the pasta tender without drying out the dish, perfect for enjoying leftovers that taste as cozy as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before mixing it with the ricotta. This prevents the filling from becoming too watery.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free soft cheese or mashed tofu, use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative, and opt for a vegetable-based Parmesan substitute to keep the creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I prepare the cannelloni in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the filled cannelloni and cover them in sauce a few hours before baking. Keep them refrigerated until ready to bake, which makes meal prep easier on busy days.
What kind of tomato sauce works best?
A simple fresh tomato basil sauce with good-quality canned tomatoes or homemade sauce works best. It should be rich yet light to complement the creamy filling without overpowering it.
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
For sure. Chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers can be mixed into the ricotta and spinach filling for extra flavor and texture, making the dish your own special creation.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the warm, comforting feeling of a homemade Baked Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni cooked with love. It’s a wonderful way to bring friends and family together over a delicious meal filled with fresh flavors and creamy textures. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish as much as I do – it’s truly a timeless Italian classic!