Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni is a delightful Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach with tender pasta tubes. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a hearty yet simple home-cooked dish.
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also nutritious and easy to prepare. Rich in vitamins from the spinach and protein from the ricotta, this dish will satisfy your taste buds while offering a healthy option. Plus, it’s a vegetarian dish that can be enjoyed by everyone!
How to prepare Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
Get ready to indulge in an Italian classic with this simple guide.
Ingredients:
- 🥄 Cannelloni tubes
- 🧀 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 🌱 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 🧀 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🧀 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 🧂 Salt
- 🌶️ Pepper
- 🥄 Nutmeg (to taste)
- 🍶 Béchamel sauce (made with butter, flour, and milk)
- 🌿 Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until combined.
- Stuff the Cannelloni: Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed tubes in a baking dish.
- Add Béchamel Sauce: Pour the béchamel sauce over the stuffed cannelloni, covering them evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to serve Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
Serve the cannelloni warm, straight from the oven. You can add a simple green salad or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal. Drizzling with a bit of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch!
How to store Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Tips for preparing Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni
- Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach if using frozen. This helps prevent a watery filling.
- Customize the filling by adding herbs like basil or oregano for more flavor.
- For a little kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce!
Variations
You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a mix of different cheeses. For a meat option, consider adding cooked ground beef or chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cannelloni and store them in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the refrigerator.
2. What can I use instead of béchamel sauce?
You can use store-bought pasta sauce, marinara, or even a simple mixture of cream and cheese if you prefer.
3. How do I know when the cannelloni are done baking?
They are done when the cheese on top is golden and bubbly, and the edges of the cannelloni are slightly crispy.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Cannelloni! 🥳🍽️