Classic Stuffed Cannelloni Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty Italian dish that will impress your family and friends, this Classic Stuffed Cannelloni Recipe is just the ticket. Filled with rich flavors and creamy cheese, this pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table.
Imagine tender tubes of pasta filled with a delicious mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, all smothered in a luscious tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. This Cannelloni Recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!
The Allure of Stuffed Cannelloni
A sumptuous serving of stuffed cannelloni is a delightful sight that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. Imagine pasta tubes generously filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and spinach, enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. The addition of melted mozzarella cheese creates a bubbling, golden topping that is hard to resist.
This Cannelloni Recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that is both comforting and impressive. It is perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, showcasing how delightful home-cooked Italian food can be.
Key Components of the Dish
At the heart of this dish is the combination of ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, delivering a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth, enhancing the filling’s flavor profile.
The pasta tubes serve as the perfect vessel for this rich filling, ensuring that every bite is a burst of flavor. The marinara sauce, with its vibrant red hue, complements the dish and ties all components together.
Preparation Steps
Preparing stuffed cannelloni is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Start by mixing the filling ingredients—ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, and spices—until well combined. This filling can be easily piped into the cannelloni tubes, making the task both fun and less messy.
Next, layering the dish in a baking dish with marinara sauce at the bottom ensures that the pasta cooks evenly, absorbing the rich flavors as it bakes. Topping it off with mozzarella cheese creates that inviting golden crust that is characteristic of a well-made cannelloni.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the cannelloni requires careful attention to time. Initially covering the dish with aluminum foil helps keep the moisture in, allowing the pasta to cook through without drying out.
Uncovering the dish towards the end of the baking time promotes the development of a beautifully melted cheese topping, enhancing the overall presentation. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest briefly before serving. This is a perfect moment to prepare for garnishing with bright basil leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed cannelloni is best served hot, straight from the oven, where the inviting aroma fills the air. Pairing it with a fresh salad or crusty bread can elevate the dining experience, providing a balance to the rich pasta dish.
The rustic wooden table setting enhances the Italian dining atmosphere, creating an inviting space perfect for sharing this delightful meal with loved ones.
Nutritional Aspects
This cannelloni dish is not only delicious; it also provides a satisfying nutritional profile. With a hearty serving size, it offers a good amount of protein from the ricotta and mozzarella, along with essential nutrients from the spinach.
Each serving is around 450 calories, making it a fulfilling choice that still allows you to enjoy the rich flavors without feeling overly indulgent. The balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, fats from the cheese, and protein makes it a rounded meal for any occasion.
The Best Classic Stuffed Cannelloni
This Cannelloni Recipe features pasta tubes stuffed with a savory blend of ricotta cheese, spinach, and a hint of nutmeg. Topped with a rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, every bite bursts with flavor, ensuring a delightful taste experience that pasta lovers will adore.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta mixture using a piping bag or a spoon.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in the dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 38g