Sunday Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

Name: Sunday Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 cannelloni tubes; 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Family Recipes

I often look forward to Sundays as a day to unwind, and what better way to celebrate the day than with a delicious homemade meal? This Sunday Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is not only comforting but also allows me to get creative in the kitchen. The tender pasta wraps around a creamy filling of fresh spinach and ricotta, all topped with a rich marinara sauce. Whether I'm hosting family or treating myself, this dish always brings smiles to the table. It's a delightful way to elevate my culinary skills and enjoy a hearty meal together.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:37:38.598Z

This cannelloni recipe has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it; the joy of seeing my friends savor every bite was priceless. Over the years, I’ve learned that adding a touch of nutmeg to the ricotta filling can elevate the flavors. It’s a small tweak that makes a world of difference. Every time I prepare this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen and brings back fond memories of shared meals.

When constructing the cannelloni, I found that a gentle hand is key. Too much pressure can tear the pasta, so I learned to be patient. Baking it covered for the first part ensures moisture retention, which makes the dish wonderfully tender. For me, this recipe not only tastes great but also reflects the love and effort I put into my family dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting layers of pasta with creamy ricotta and spinach filling
Simple yet flavorful marinara sauce enhancing every bite
Perfect dish for gathering family and friends together

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni, the quality of your ingredients truly shines through. For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh spinach rather than frozen; it brings a vibrant color and a tender bite to the filling. If you're short on time, pre-washed baby spinach can save you some prep work without compromising on taste. Additionally, selecting a high-quality ricotta is crucial—locally sourced or artisanal varieties often have a creamier consistency and richer flavor.

The cheese blend in this recipe is essential for creating a layered and complex flavor profile. Mozzarella offers stretch and creaminess while Parmesan adds a nutty depth. If you want to experiment, try substituting half of the mozzarella for a more aged cheese, like Gruyère, for an extra flavor punch. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning; a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs can elevate the overall taste.

Mastering the Cannelloni Technique

Filling cannelloni tubes can be a bit tricky, but I’ve found that using a piping bag makes it much cleaner and easier. If you don't have a piping bag, a plastic sandwich bag with the corner snipped off works well too. Be sure not to overfill the tubes, as the mixture will expand while cooking; filling to about three-quarters full is ideal. If any mixture spills out, simply gently wipe the edges clean before placing the cannelloni in the baking dish.

When assembling the dish, be mindful of the layering. A thin layer of marinara at the bottom not only prevents the cannelloni from sticking but also infuses moisture while baking. Aim for a bubbling, golden top after the final bake; this means your cheeses have melted and the flavors have melded beautifully. A quick broil for the last 2-3 minutes can also help achieve that perfect golden finish—just keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.

For the Cannelloni

12 cannelloni tubes
2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

Make sure to keep some extra mozzarella for topping if desired!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your delicious cannelloni.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together chopped spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Stuff the Cannelloni

Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a piping bag or a spoon.

Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add marinara sauce and oregano, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni on top, then cover with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top if desired.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade cannelloni!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the cannelloni tubes initially
they should be al dente as they will cook further while baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni ahead of time can be a real time-saver. You can fill the cannelloni and assemble the dish the day before, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. To bake, simply preheat the oven and extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to account for the cold filling. This method allows the flavors to meld even more, creating a richer meal.

If you have leftovers, they store quite well! Allow the dish to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring you don’t lose that cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery contrast to the rich cheese-filled cannelloni. For those who enjoy crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the salad before serving. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, would complement the creamy flavors while keeping the meal refreshing.

For a fun twist, consider varying the filling. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts can introduce new dimensions, while sautéed mushrooms will deepen the umami flavor. Each variation gives you the ability to tailor the dish to personal tastes or seasonal ingredients!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like feta or cottage cheese.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cannelloni and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with cannelloni?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.