Valentine Dinner Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

Name: Valentine Dinner Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 cannelloni pasta tubes; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cups marinara sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni for special occasions, and what better time than Valentine’s Day? This dish not only looks impressive on the table, but it's also a delightful blend of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach wrapped in tender pasta. I enjoy the process of assembling these delightful rolls, which turn into a warm, inviting meal that's perfect for sharing. Whether you're preparing a romantic dinner or celebrating with friends, this recipe will surely make everyone feel loved and appreciated.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:40:14.965Z

When I first tried making cannelloni, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding it is to prepare this dish from scratch. The combination of a generous filling of ricotta and spinach, topped with marinara sauce, truly elevates the overall flavor. Plus, it can be a wonderful activity to do with loved ones, and the shared experience makes it all the more special.

One tip I've found essential is to let the assembled cannelloni rest for a few minutes before baking. This allows the pasta to absorb the sauce, resulting in a juicier bite. Trust me, the patience pays off as each forkful is infused with that delicious sauce!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy filling with a hint of nutmeg
Beautiful presentation that impresses any guest
Perfectly balanced flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated

      

Perfecting Your Cannelloni

One of the key techniques in making Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is ensuring that the pasta tubes are filled thoroughly but not overstuffed. This prevents the filling from oozing out during baking. If using a piping bag, a larger round tip can help you fill the tubes more easily. An alternative is a small spoon, but practice caution to avoid tearing the delicate pasta skin.

Prepping the filling to the right consistency is crucial. You want a creamy filling that holds together well. If your ricotta is too wet, it can make the filling runny. Drain any excess moisture from the ricotta, and consider incorporating cottage cheese for added texture if you want a twist on the traditional creaminess.

Choosing the Right Marinara

The marinara sauce used in this recipe can significantly alter the overall flavor of the dish. For a homemade touch, simmer canned tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld for a richer sauce. Alternatively, choose a high-quality store-bought option, but ensure it’s not overly sweet—I recommend looking for one with minimal added sugars.

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara. Another option for enhancing flavor is to sauté onions and mushrooms alongside the garlic before adding them to the sauce, which can give an earthy depth to your dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni:

Ingredients

12 cannelloni pasta tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling the cannelloni!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a wonderful Valentine dinner:

Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, grated parmesan, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Stuff the Cannelloni

Using a teaspoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta and spinach mixture. Set aside while preparing the baking dish.

Assemble the Dish

Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed cannelloni on top of the sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure all pasta is covered.

Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish, ensuring an even layer.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade cannelloni with a side salad or garlic bread!

Pro Tips

Don't overfill the cannelloni to prevent the filling from oozing out during cooking. You can also prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve this dish for a special occasion, you can prepare the cannelloni ahead of time. After stuffing the tubes, they can be placed in a baking dish with sauce and covered tightly with plastic wrap for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply uncover and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

For storing leftovers, let any uneaten cannelloni cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you want to freeze the leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container, ideally with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will last in the freezer for up to three months, and reheating them in the oven will help maintain that wonderful cheese texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A Caesar salad with crispy croutons, or a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, complements the creamy richness of the cannelloni well. The acidity of the dressing also helps cut through the flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.

For a decadent touch, consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction can also elevate the presentation and flavor, making it feel even more gourmet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used; just make sure to thaw it and wring out excess moisture before mixing with the ricotta.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for pasta?

Yes, you can find gluten-free cannelloni or use zucchini strips as a low-carb alternative.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The ricotta filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the dish.

→ What can I serve with cannelloni?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, adding a fresh touch.