Creamy Spinach Cannelloni

Name: Creamy Spinach Cannelloni
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g cannelloni pasta; 500g fresh spinach; 250g ricotta cheese; 100g grated parmesan cheese; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 50g butter; 50g all-purpose flour; 500ml milk; Salt to taste; 100g grated mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Cannelloni, as it combines flavors and textures in the most delightful way. The creamy filling of ricotta and spinach enveloped in tender pasta tubes, all topped with a luxurious white sauce, is a surefire hit at any gathering. Preparing this dish is a wonderful way to indulge, and every bite is a little glimpse of Italy on my dinner table. It’s not just about eating; it’s about savoring! The compliments from family and friends make the effort worthwhile.

Created by

Cassandra Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:09:34.727Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Cannelloni, I was amazed at how rich and satisfying each bite was. Using fresh spinach mixed with creamy ricotta creates a delightful filling that surprises everyone. I also discovered that letting the cannelloni rest after baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious upon serving.

What works best for me is adding a touch of nutmeg to the filling; it really enhances the flavor and gives it a warmth that elevates this dish. Serving it straight from the oven ensures that the sauce is bubbling and golden, making for a picture-perfect presentation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent creaminess in every bite.
A beautiful balance of flavors and textures.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Cannelloni

When preparing cannelloni, it's crucial to avoid overcooking your pasta. If you cook it too long, it can become mushy and fall apart when you stuff it. Aim for the pasta to be al dente when boiled; this way, it will hold its shape during baking. A perfect cook time is usually around 2-3 minutes less than package instructions. After draining, rinse the tubes with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Stuffing the cannelloni can be tricky; a small spoon helps, but consider using a piping bag for greater ease and precision. This way, you can fill the tubes quickly and cleanly without losing too much filling. If you find the filling too thick, a little extra ricotta or a splash of cream can help it flow more easily into the pasta.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Adding garlic to the sautéed spinach can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Finely chop or mince 1-2 cloves and cook them in the skillet before adding in the spinach. The aromatic quality of garlic complements the creaminess of the ricotta beautifully. Additionally, for a hint of zest, consider incorporating a dash of lemon juice or lemon zest into the filling for a fresh contrast to the richness.

If you're looking to customize your cannelloni beyond spinach and ricotta, consider swapping out spinach for other greens, like Swiss chard or kale. These alternatives provide unique flavors and textures, while still pairing wonderfully with the white sauce. For added protein, finely diced cooked chicken or mushrooms can be blended into the filling for a satisfying twist.

Ingredients

For the Cannelloni

250g cannelloni pasta
500g fresh spinach
250g ricotta cheese
100g grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the White Sauce

50g butter
50g all-purpose flour
500ml milk
Salt to taste
100g grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, sauté the fresh spinach until wilted. Allow it to cool, then chop finely. In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach with ricotta, half of the parmesan cheese, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Cannelloni

Using a small spoon, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Set them aside once filled.

Make the White Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened and season with salt.

Assemble the Dish

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni side by side, and cover generously with the remaining white sauce and the rest of the parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy spinach cannelloni with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

To make this dish vegetarian, opt for a vegetable-based broth in the sauce. You can also substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat version.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Cannelloni is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance, just be sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. If you need to save time, you can also prepare the filling and white sauce separately; just store them in airtight containers in the fridge and assemble shortly before baking.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days. To reheat, place the cannelloni in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 20-25 minutes, covered to prevent drying out, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they heat evenly.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience, serve your cannelloni with a light side salad. A mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish and provides a refreshing contrast. Crusty bread is also a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley over the top before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but the fresh herbs will add a lovely scent and flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce. You can also serve this dish with a glass of white wine, such as a light Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cannelloni a day ahead and pop it in the oven right before serving.

→ Can I freeze the cannelloni?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

→ What can I serve with cannelloni?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before mixing.