Creamy Spinach Cannelloni

Name: Creamy Spinach Cannelloni
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 cannelloni pasta tubes; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Modern Meals

I love making Creamy Spinach Cannelloni because it perfectly combines the rich flavors of spinach and cheese enveloped in tender pasta. The first time I tried this dish, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare while still feeling gourmet. The creamy cheese filling contrasts beautifully with the natural earthiness of the spinach, making it a delightful dish that impresses everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while indulging in a comforting pasta meal!

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:21:35.243Z

Creating Creamy Spinach Cannelloni became a weekend tradition in my house, and I fondly recall the first time I prepared it for friends. The laughter and compliments that filled our kitchen made every minute spent in the kitchen worthwhile. By blending ricotta and mozzarella, I discovered that adding a dash of nutmeg enhanced the flavors incredibly and made the filling irresistible.

Through experimentation, I learned that pre-cooking the pasta sheets slightly before filling and baking made this dish even better. Not only does it cook uniformly, but it also holds its structure beautifully, absorbing all the wonderful sauce flavors without becoming mushy. Trust me, this technique is a game-changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent cheese filling that oozes with every bite
Perfectly cooked pasta that holds its shape
A comforting dish ideal for gatherings or family dinners

      

Understanding Cannelloni and Its Cooking Method

Cannelloni is a type of pasta that is tubular in shape, designed to be stuffed with a variety of fillings. This recipe capitalizes on its sturdy structure, allowing it to hold the creamy filling without breaking. When cooking the cannelloni, ensure you select a brand that offers a good thickness; thinner tubes can easily split during boiling or baking. Start by boiling the pasta for just a few minutes, as it will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring it remains al dente and doesn't become mushy.

Traditionally, cannelloni are baked rather than boiled completely, which means they'll absorb the flavors of the marinara sauce while developing a comforting texture. During the initial baking phase, covering the dish with aluminum foil traps steam, preventing the pasta from drying out. However, be cautious not to leave it covered for too long during the final browning stage to achieve that desirable bubbly, golden finish.

The Role of Ingredients in This Dish

Cornstarch-free ricotta cheese is favored in this dish for its excellent moisture content, which contributes to the creamy texture without being overly runny. If you want to lighten the dish, low-fat ricotta can be a suitable substitute, but ensure that it's still creamy enough to provide that velvety mouthfeel. Moreover, adding finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor profile of the filling without overpowering the spinach and cheese.

Nutmeg is an essential spice in this recipe, serving to elevate the creamy filling with warm undertones. Use freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor, adding complexity that harmonizes beautifully with the spinach. If nutmeg isn't available, you can try a pinch of ground cinnamon or allspice as a substitute to maintain that warmth in the filling.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Cannelloni makes for excellent leftovers. After baking, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. If stored properly in the refrigerator, it should stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, cover the cannelloni with foil to prevent drying out, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, approximately 20 minutes. For individual servings, microwave portions may also be reheated but monitor closely to avoid overcooking.

You can also prepare the cannelloni in advance by filling and assembling the dish, then covering it tightly with foil and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freezing is an option; just ensure the sauce covers the pasta well. To bake from frozen, increase the initial cooking time by 15-20 minutes, and check for doneness by ensuring the filling is heated through and the top is golden brown.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delectable meal.

Ingredients

12 cannelloni pasta tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 egg
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you are set to create magic!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy cannelloni.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Cannelloni

Using a piping bag or spoon, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and cheese mixture.

Assemble the Dish

Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni on top and cover with the remaining sauce.

Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the cannelloni.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve warm.

Dig in and enjoy your delicious cannelloni!

Pro Tips

You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Customization Options

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling based on your preferences. For an even heartier dish, consider incorporating cooked ground meat, such as beef or turkey, into the spinach mixture. Alternatively, for a vegan approach, substitute the cheese filling with blended silken tofu, nutritional yeast, and sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and texture.

Adding different cheeses such as gouda or fontina to the filling can also elevate the flavor complexity. Just be mindful about the melting properties of these cheeses—ensure they are shreddable and can contribute to that oozy finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your filling is too watery, this can lead to a soggy final product. To fix this, try draining the ricotta cheese in a fine mesh sieve for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture before mixing in your ingredients. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the filling can help absorb extra liquid and add a pleasant texture.

On the other hand, if your cannelloni is dry after baking, it could be due to insufficient sauce. Make sure that the pasta tubes are well coated in sauce before baking. You can also reserve a portion of the marinara to add mid-way through baking if you notice it drying out or to spoon over before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the cannelloni and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is there a gluten-free option available?

Yes! Substitute the cannelloni with gluten-free pasta tubes available at most grocery stores.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.