Creamy Spinach Cannelloni

Name: Creamy Spinach Cannelloni
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 cannelloni pasta tubes; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Cannelloni when I want to impress my family and friends with a delicious, comforting dish. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tender pasta tubes creates a luxurious experience on the plate. Plus, there's something incredibly satisfying about rolling up the filling and seeing it baked to perfection. This dish makes for an ideal dinner centerpiece, and it's an excellent way to sneak some healthy greens into a rich meal that everyone will enjoy. Let's dive into this delightful recipe!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:53:40.540Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I knew I wanted something rich yet packed with flavor. I combined creamy ricotta cheese, sautéed garlic, and fresh spinach—an irresistible trio. The result was a silky filling that perfectly balances the tender pasta. I also played around with the cheese toppings to find the right melty topping to crown the dish, as it adds that extra decadence.

One of my best discoveries was using a bit of nutmeg in the filling. It brings out a depth of warmth that pairs perfectly with the spinach. If you haven't tried adding a pinch, trust me, it's a game changer! This dish has become a staple at my dinner parties, and I'm sure it will impress whoever you serve it to.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta filling with a hint of nutmeg that balances perfectly with fresh spinach.
Delicate pasta tubes stuffed full, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Customizable; experiment with different cheeses or add your favorite proteins.

Understanding the Filling

The filling for Creamy Spinach Cannelloni is what truly elevates the dish. The combination of ricotta and parmesan not only provides a creamy texture but also enhances the flavor profile. Ricotta contributes a rich creaminess, while parmesan adds a sharp, nutty note. To elevate the taste, always opt for high-quality cheeses. The addition of nutmeg might seem unusual, but it beautifully complements spinach, enriching the overall experience. A pinch too much can be overpowering, so start with less and adjust according to your taste.

When preparing the filling, ensure that the spinach is adequately washed and chopped to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling watery. Sautéing the garlic before adding the spinach releases its essential oils, enhancing the dish's aroma and flavor. I recommend cooking the spinach only until wilted; overcooking can lead to a loss of vibrant green color and nutrients.

Perfecting the Cannelloni

Filling the cannelloni tubes can be a bit tricky, but using a piping bag simplifies the process. If you don’t have one, a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off works just as well. Make sure to fill the tubes completely to avoid empty pockets, which can lead to uneven cooking. If you have leftover filling, you can use it to layer in a baking dish alongside the cannelloni, which will keep the dish moist and flavorful.

When arranging your filled cannelloni in the baking dish, aim to lay them in a single layer without crowding. This ensures that they cook evenly and the sauce can evenly penetrate the pasta, which prevents dry spots. A generous layer of marinara sauce on top is essential to keep the cannelloni from drying out during baking, especially if they are slightly undercooked before going into the oven.

Ingredients

For the Filling

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cannelloni

12 cannelloni pasta tubes
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. In a bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Fill the Cannelloni

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the prepared filling. Make sure they are generously stuffed.

Arrange and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Finish Baking

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider making your own marinara sauce or using roasted garlic in the filling. You can also add cooked ground meat to the filling for a heartier option.

Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Cannelloni can be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy days or entertaining. Prepare the filling and stuff the cannelloni tubes, but don’t bake them just yet. You can store the uncooked filled cannelloni in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent drying out. Just be sure to add a bit more cooking time in the oven to account for the chilled filling.

If you want to prepare this dish even further in advance, consider freezing it. Arrange the unbaked, filled cannelloni in a freezer-safe dish, adding sauce as needed to reduce freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time to 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness to ensure they are heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Cannelloni is delightful on its own, but can be paired perfectly with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cannelloni, balancing flavors beautifully and refreshing the palate after each bite. I often serve it alongside bruschetta for an added Italian touch.

You can also enhance your cannelloni by adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top of the cheese before baking, which adds an exciting kick to the overall dish and balances the creaminess from the cheeses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to fill the cannelloni.

→ What if I can't find cannelloni pasta?

You can substitute with manicotti pasta, which has a similar shape and works just as well.

→ Can I freeze the baked cannelloni?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then cover well before freezing. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any other veggies you enjoy, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or artichokes. Just make sure they are cooked and well-drained.