Oh, let me tell you, there’s just something magical about making cannelloni! It’s like wrapping little gifts of joy filled with a creamy ricotta and fresh spinach filling. When you pop these beauties in the oven, the aroma wafts through your kitchen, and trust me, it’s nothing short of heavenly. This dish hails from Italy, and it’s so popular for a reason—it’s comforting, delicious, and just feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! I promise, once you taste that first bite, you’ll be hooked. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and it’s perfect for any occasion—family dinners, special celebrations, or just a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Ingredients for Cannelloni
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best cannelloni! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 cannelloni tubes: These are the star of the show! Make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese gives the filling its delicious richness.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a pop of color and nutrients—definitely a must!
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that savory, cheesy goodness both in the filling and on top.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The perfect sauce to smother your cannelloni in; go for your favorite brand or homemade!
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Just enough to give it a subtle kick.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all those lovely flavors.
- 1 tsp pepper: A little spice to balance the creaminess.
How to Prepare Cannelloni
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your cannelloni bake evenly and gives that delightful golden finish. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Prepare the Filling
Now, let’s whip up that scrumptious filling! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. This filling is so dreamy! Next, grab a piping bag or a spoon and carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the cheesy goodness. You want them nice and plump, so don’t be shy!
Assemble the Dish
Time to bring it all together! Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish—this keeps the cannelloni from sticking. Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish, side by side, and then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the Parmesan cheese on for that extra cheesy goodness. Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. Oh, the anticipation is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cannelloni recipe is a total winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’re going to adore it:
- Quick to prepare—ready in about an hour!
- Easy steps make it perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavorful ricotta and spinach filling that’s simply irresistible.
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings.
- Customizable with your favorite sauces or additional veggies.
Tips for Success
To take your cannelloni to the next level, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t overfill the tubes; they should be snug but not bursting at the seams. For added flavor, try mixing in some fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a splash of heavy cream or béchamel sauce. And remember, letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to settle beautifully!
Variations of Cannelloni
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to give your cannelloni a twist! Try swapping out the ricotta for a creamy goat cheese for a tangy flavor. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the spinach filling for extra depth. How about a meaty version? Ground beef or sausage sautéed with onions works wonders! And if you’re a sauce lover, switch the marinara for a rich Alfredo or a zesty pesto for a fresh take. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates! For each serving of this delicious cannelloni, you can expect around 350 calories, 15g of fat, 15g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. Always check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate information. Enjoy your meal while keeping these values in mind!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions I get about making cannelloni:
Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried cannelloni tubes?
Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as fresh pasta cooks quicker.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They reheat beautifully in the oven!
Can I freeze cannelloni?
Yes! Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to a month. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a bit of extra time.
What else can I add to the filling?
Feel free to mix in some sautéed onions, garlic, or even a bit of lemon zest for a fresh twist!
Serving Suggestions
To create the perfect meal around your cannelloni, consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. A crusty garlic bread is also an excellent choice for soaking up that delicious marinara sauce! And don’t forget a glass of robust red wine to complement the flavors—it’s a match made in Italian heaven!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Baked Ziti with Meatballs. If you’re interested in the history of cannelloni, you can read about it here.
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Cannelloni: 7 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love This Dish
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cannelloni filled with ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, half of the Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the cheese mixture.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place filled cannelloni in the dish and cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until golden.
Notes
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cannelloni, pasta, ricotta, spinach, Italian cuisine
