Ricotta And Spinach Stuffed Cannelloni
Craving a comforting and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines the richness of Italian flavors with a cozy home-cooked feel? Look no further than our delightful recipe for Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Cannelloni. This classic Italian dish features tender pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of creamy ricotta cheese and earthy spinach, all bathed in a luscious tomato sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a dish that is sure to warm your soul and impress your guests at any gathering.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 box of cannelloni pasta tubes (about 12 pieces)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, drained spinach, 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Take a piping bag or a plastic zip-top bag and snip off one corner (if using) to easily fill the cannelloni tubes. Fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta-spinach mixture using the piping bag or a small spoon, ensuring they are evenly filled.
4. Place the filled cannelloni tubes in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
5. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed cannelloni, making sure they are all generously coated.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Once done, remove the cannelloni from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Delight in the aroma as this delicious Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Cannelloni emerges from the oven, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. Serve it alongside a simple green salad and a glass of your favorite Italian wine for a complete dining experience that is both indulgent and satisfying. This dish can be a cozy weeknight meal or the star of your next dinner party, bringing the flavors of Italy right to your table. Enjoy every bite of this comforting creation that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.