Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Name: Sunday Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 cannelloni pasta tubes; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups tomato puree; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Whenever I think of Sunday dinners, I can’t help but feel excited about making Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, all lovingly wrapped in tender pasta. As I prepare this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table. It’s a labor of love that’s absolutely worth it, especially when topped with a rich, homemade tomato sauce that perfectly complements the flavors inside the cannelloni.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:40:15.553Z

I distinctly remember the first time I attempted to make cannelloni from scratch. The excitement turned into a mini-experiment as I adjusted the filling to my taste, incorporating garlic and nutmeg. The balance of flavors was delightful and truly made the dish stand out. I learned that letting the filling rest for a bit helps the flavors meld, resulting in a richer taste.

The first bite of this creamy and cheesy pasta totally spoiled me. Each piece is like a bite-sized hug, and adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top complements the dish beautifully. This hasn't just become a Sunday staple in my home; it's something I cherish and love to share with friends and family.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and flavorful ricotta filling infused with fresh spinach
Homemade tomato sauce bursting with rich flavors
A great meal for family gatherings and special occasions.

      

Mastering the Cannelloni Technique

Filling cannelloni can be a challenge if not approached correctly. A piping bag can simplify the task, ensuring each tube is evenly filled without damaging the pasta. If you don’t have a piping bag, make a makeshift one with a zip-top bag. Just cut a small corner off, and use it to squeeze in the filling. Take your time – overstuffing can lead to breaks while baking, so aim for a generous yet manageable amount of filling per tube.

When mixing the filling, the texture should be smooth yet slightly chunky due to the spinach. This combination yields a satisfying mouthfeel, enhancing the overall dish. Ensure your ricotta is fresh; it significantly impacts the flavor and creaminess. If you prefer a lighter filling, consider using part-skim ricotta, but avoid fat-free options, as they lack creaminess and can result in a dry texture.

Customizing the Tomato Sauce

The homemade tomato sauce is a crucial component of this dish, and you can easily customize it. Try adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a splash of red wine while simmering for depth. For a fresher flavor, consider incorporating diced fresh tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end; just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance the acidity.

If you need to save time, using store-bought tomato sauce is acceptable, but for a real flavor punch, I recommend adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to your quick sauce. This not only enhances the taste but also adds texture. Letting the sauce simmer longer on low heat develops richer flavors, making it a delightful complement to your cannelloni.

Ingredients

For the Cannelloni

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

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato puree
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Make the Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions, sautéing until translucent. Stir in tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Fill the Cannelloni

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

Assemble the Dish

Spread a layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled cannelloni on top and cover with remaining sauce. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbling.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or mix some herbs into the ricotta filling.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing this spinach and ricotta cannelloni in advance is a great way to save time on busy Sundays. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you prefer, you can also freeze the assembled cannelloni. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your cannelloni, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The citrus will balance the richness of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast. Also, consider serving it with crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce, making it a satisfying meal that leaves no leftovers.

For a heartier meal, you can complement this dish with sides of roasted vegetables or garlic bread. If you want to elevate the dining experience, finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest over the cannelloni just before serving. It adds a bright flavor that beautifully contrasts the creamy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pasta?

Yes, you can use store-bought cannelloni pasta if you prefer to save time.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the cannelloni a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with cannelloni?

A crisp salad and some garlic bread work perfectly as sides for this dish.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling for variety.