Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Name: Sunday Spinach and Ricotta 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 fresh spinach, wilted; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni whenever I want a cozy and satisfying meal. The rich, creamy filling of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach wrapped in tender pasta tubes is a delight. Not only is it comforting, but it also delivers a perfect balance of flavors. This dish has become a family favorite, especially on leisurely Sundays when I can spend a bit more time in the kitchen. Each bite is a warm hug, making it the ideal way to wind down the week.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:13:10.725Z

Making Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is always a delightful journey for me. The method starts with sautéing fresh spinach until it wilts, then mixing it with creamy ricotta, a dash of nutmeg, and plenty of Italian herbs. I find that using fresh spinach makes a significant difference in flavor and texture, ensuring the filling is vibrant and delicious.

To assemble, I love to take my time and layer flavors my way – a homemade tomato sauce for saturation and a sprinkle of cheese on top for that golden finish. It’s satisfying to see each cannelloni filled to perfection, and it makes the kitchen smell heavenly while baking!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ricotta blended with fresh spinach for an irresistible filling
Perfectly tender cannelloni baked in a savory tomato sauce
Great for family gatherings or a relaxing Sunday dinner
Can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment

      

The Magic of Cannelloni

Cannelloni is a versatile pasta that shines in this dish thanks to its hollow structure, which holds sauces and fillings beautifully. When preparing the cannelloni tubes, ensure they are just al dente before filling them; this will prevent them from becoming too soft during baking. If you find the tubes difficult to fill, a piping bag can be a great help, allowing for a cleaner and faster process. This technique keeps the filling intact, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor.

The blend of ricotta and spinach creates a creamy texture that complements the bite of the pasta. Ricotta is crucial here as it delivers a light, airy filling while contributing creaminess. If you're looking for a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ricotta and mascarpone cheese for an even silkier filling. This variation enhances the overall satisfaction of the dish, making each forkful even more delightful.

Perfecting Your Sauce

The sauce is integral to enhancing the overall flavor of the cannelloni. Opt for quality tomato sauce, as the taste of the sauce permeates the pasta and filling. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can simmer the tomato sauce with a bit of garlic and onion before adding it to your cannelloni. Not only does this deepen the taste, but it also adds a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.

While baking, keeping the dish covered with foil for the first 30 minutes traps moisture, ensuring that the pasta cooks evenly. However, for the last 10 minutes without the foil, the mozzarella cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden topping. For a twist, try adding the cheese for the last 5 minutes, so it browns beautifully without becoming too browned or tough.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious spinach and ricotta filling for your cannelloni.

For the Cannelloni

12 cannelloni pasta tubes
2 cups fresh spinach, wilted
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Preparation

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, you're ready to get started on this delicious dish!

Steps to Prepare

Follow these steps to create your cannelloni masterpiece.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill the Cannelloni

Using a spoon, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta filling.

Assemble in the Dish

In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce. Arrange the filled cannelloni on top, then pour the remaining sauce over them.

Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and cover the dish with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.

Enjoy Your Meal

Let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or even sun-dried tomatoes to the filling. Also, this dish freezes beautifully
just prepare it up to the baking step and freeze before cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is its make-ahead potential. You can fully assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, if you're planning to freeze it, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze before baking. It will keep for about three months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking to ensure even cooking.

If you're concerned about soggy pasta when reheating, briefly precook the cannelloni for a minute or two in boiling water before filling. This can help remove excess starch and moisture, leading to a better texture when baked later on. Enjoy delicious, freshly made cannelloni even on the busiest nights!

Serving Ideas

When serving Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce—your guests will appreciate the added touch. For an elegant presentation, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to add a pop of color and brightness to the plate.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables in between the sauce and the cannelloni for added texture and flavor. This not only enhances the nutrient profile but also elevates the overall experience of enjoying this comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it with the ricotta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

The recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure all the sauces and cheese are also vegetarian.

→ Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cannelloni and layer them with sauce in advance and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with cannelloni?

Serve it with a fresh green salad and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.