When my week takes an unexpected turn—like the kind of day that feels never-ending—I find comfort in the kitchen, crafting dishes that feel like a warm hug. Enter Spinach Beef Cannelloni, a delightful combo of flavors that dances on your palate and brings a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle outside. Imagine your home filled with the delicious aroma of ground beef seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, mingling beautifully with fresh spinach and creamy ricotta.
This dish is more than a meal; it's an adventure in flavors that satisfies the heart while promising a quick and straightforward cooking experience. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll impress family or friends without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to escape the monotony of fast food, this recipe is your ticket to a cozy evening at home—where every bite takes you on a journey of comfort and joy. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness of Spinach Beef Cannelloni and make that kitchen your happy place.
Why You'll Love This Spinach Beef Cannelloni
- This Spinach Beef Cannelloni is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 45 minutes from start to finish.
- The rich and savory flavor of seasoned ground beef mingled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach is truly unforgettable.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the filling or sauce to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Plus, this visually stunning dish will impress any guests, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or family dinners.
Spinach Beef Cannelloni Ingredients
For the Filling
• 3 cups fresh spinach – adds vibrant color and nutrition to your Spinach Beef Cannelloni.
• 1 lb lean ground beef – provides a hearty protein base for the filling.
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese – offers a creamy texture that balances the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the flavors and brings warmth to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds a delightful herbal note that complements the beef.
For the Pasta
• 12 no-boil cannelloni pasta tubes – makes this dish easy and quick to assemble without pre-cooking.
For the Topping
• 2 cups marinara sauce – layers flavor and moisture, making the dish irresistible.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – creates a bubbly, golden topping that draws everyone to the table.
How to Make Spinach Beef Cannelloni
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for perfectly baked cannelloni, so take your time here—don’t forget to spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray!
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Sauté the fresh spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 3 minutes. Once it's softened, remove it from the heat and chop it finely to distribute its flavor throughout the filling.
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Cook the ground beef in the same skillet, seasoning it with garlic powder and Italian seasoning until browned. Drain any excess fat; this will keep your dish from becoming greasy.
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Mix the chopped spinach, cooked beef, and ricotta cheese in a bowl until well combined. This creamy mixture will be the star of your cannelloni, so stir well!
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Fill each cannelloni tube carefully with the spinach-beef mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for a mess-free filling experience. Just be gentle to avoid tearing the pasta.
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Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Place the stuffed cannelloni on top, then pour the remaining sauce over them, ensuring they're well-coated. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 25 minutes. You’ll know it's ready when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden—pure comfort food magic!
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spinach Beef Cannelloni are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can prepare the filling (spinach, beef, and ricotta mixture) up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful. If you want to assemble the entire dish, feel free to assemble the cannelloni, cover with marinara and cheese, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, cover the baking dish tightly with foil. When you're ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes (adding a few extra minutes if cooking from cold) until hot and bubbly. Enjoy a homemade feast with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Fridge: Keep any leftover Spinach Beef Cannelloni in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each individual cannelloni tightly with plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until heated through. If frozen, add 10–15 minutes to reheating time.
Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze, consider assembling the cannelloni without marinara sauce, then add before baking to avoid sogginess.
Spinach Beef Cannelloni Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas for a delightful twist on your Spinach Beef Cannelloni!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils to create a hearty and satisfying filling. This brings an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cannelloni or zucchini strips as a low-carb alternative. Zucchini adds a fresh touch while ensuring everyone can enjoy this meal.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or add an extra layer of mozzarella for a cheesier experience. The gooey goodness elevates comfort to a whole new level.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the beef mixture for a satisfying heat. This adds a fun kick that will awaken your taste buds!
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Herb Garden: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley in the filling for a burst of freshness. A hint of herbs elevates the flavors, making your dish even more aromatic.
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Creamy Sauce: Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist. It turns your dish into a decadent treat while keeping the comfort factor high.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the spinach-beef mix for an unexpected crunchy texture. This adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Savory Veggie Additions: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or grated carrots in the filling for added nutrition and color. The extra veggies make the dish more vibrant and wholesome.
What to Serve with Spinach Beef Cannelloni?
Bring your dining experience to life by pairing these delightful cannelloni with sides that complement their rich flavors and creamy textures.
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Garlic Bread: This crisp and buttery staple adds that satisfying crunch, perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
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Caesar Salad: A refreshing crispness from romaine lettuce and tangy dressing perfectly balances the hearty, savory filling of the cannelloni, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers caramelize beautifully, adding color and a hint of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory cannelloni.
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Parmesan Risotto: Creamy and rich, this dish creates a luxurious mouthfeel that pairs well with the robust flavors of the spinach and beef, making every bite a delight.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright green veggie adds a touch of freshness and is a great way to sneak in some nutrients while offering a crunchy contrast to the softness of the dish.
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Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, complements the savory notes of beef while enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.
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Tiramisu: Finish your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its coffee flavors and creamy texture are the perfect capstone to your cannelloni feast.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your ground beef is well browned to enhance the flavor of your Spinach Beef Cannelloni and don't forget to drain excess fat to keep the filling light.
- When sautéing the spinach, use medium heat to prevent burning but ensure it's wilted to impart a rich flavor throughout the dish.
- For a smoother filling, make sure to chop the spinach finely after sautéing, as this will help it mix well with the ricotta and beef.
- Remember to cover the dish with foil while baking to keep the moisture in, and remove it during the last few minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully.
Spinach Beef Cannelloni Recipe FAQs
How do I choose fresh spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh spinach, look for leaves that are dark green, crisp, and perky. Avoid any that show signs of wilting or dark spots, as these indicate old or spoiled greens. Fresh, tender spinach not only adds vibrancy to your dish but also enhances the overall flavor profile!
How should I store leftover Spinach Beef Cannelloni?
Very good question! To keep your delicious leftovers fresh, simply transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or discoloration, before reheating.
Can I freeze Spinach Beef Cannelloni?
Certainly! For freezing, I recommend wrapping each cannelloni tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or add an additional 10–15 minutes if they’re still frozen.
What should I do if my cannelloni tubes are broken?
Oh no! If you find that some of your cannelloni tubes have broken, don’t worry! You can still use them by layering the filling in a baking dish like a lasagna. Just spread some marinara sauce on the bottom, add the filling mixture, and then alternate the layers with broken cannelloni pieces. Cover it with sauce, cheese, and bake as usual. It’ll still taste fantastic!
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free cannelloni pasta. Additionally, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Always be mindful of any allergens in the ingredients, especially if you’re hosting—keeping everyone safe and happy is key!
Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Sauté the fresh spinach over medium heat until wilted, about 3 minutes. Chop finely.
- Cook the ground beef in the same skillet with garlic powder and Italian seasoning until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix chopped spinach, cooked beef, and ricotta cheese in a bowl until well combined.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach-beef mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place stuffed cannelloni on top and cover with the remaining sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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