Valentine Dinner Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

Name: Valentine Dinner Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 cannelloni tubes; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Holiday Plates

I absolutely love preparing special meals to celebrate occasions, and this Valentine Dinner Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni is one of my favorites. The combination of rich ricotta and fresh spinach wrapped in tender pasta shells, topped with marinara sauce, creates a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. It's a showstopper on the dinner table and a wonderful way to express love through food. It's straightforward to make for a romantic evening in, and I'm sure you'll adore its flavors as much as I do!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:01:09.837Z

Creating this cannelloni dish has become a tradition for me each Valentine’s Day. I remember the first time I made it for someone special; the combination of flavors was a hit! Using fresh spinach not only elevates the taste but also adds a beautiful color contrast that appeals to the eye. It's important to season the ricotta mixture well—don't skip that step or the dish may turn out bland.

I've found that letting the cannelloni rest a bit before serving enhances the flavors even further. The marinara sauce soaks into the pasta slightly, making every bite flavorful and comforting. Pairing it with a light salad and garlic bread rounds out the meal beautifully. Trust me; this dish will impress anyone you serve it to!

What You'll Love About This Dish
Delicate pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach
Classic marinara sauce layered for extra flavor
Impressive enough for a romantic dinner yet simple to prepare

Filling Techniques and Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your cannelloni filling is crucial for a successful dish. The ricotta should be creamy and smooth, which helps create a luscious mouthfeel. Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the ricotta for the best results; too much liquid can cause the filling to become watery and fail to hold its shape during baking. Mixing in finely chopped spinach not only adds flavor but also contributes to a vibrant color, making each bite visually appealing as well.

When combining the filling ingredients, don't be afraid to get your hands in the mix. A gentle folding technique ensures that you maintain the lightness of the ricotta while evenly distributing the spinach and cheeses. If you're looking to experiment, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture; it's a classic pairing with spinach and ricotta that enhances the dish's overall depth. Just a dash can elevate the flavors without overpowering them.

Saucing and Baking for Perfection

Layering the marinara sauce correctly is essential for fully infused flavor throughout the cannelloni. By spreading half of the sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, you prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure that the first layer of heat and moisture is introduced as it bakes. A good marinara sauce should be thick and robust—homemade or store-bought, ensure it contains no added sugars and focuses on vine-ripened tomatoes for optimal taste.

Baking times can vary based on your oven, but always aim for that delightful bubbly and golden top. If you notice the edges bubbling before the center has set, cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Once baked, allowing the cannelloni to rest for about 10 minutes helps the filling stabilize and makes for cleaner slices. This resting period allows the structure to hold while still maintaining a creamy consistency inside.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, consider garnishing your cannelloni with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to enhance fragrance and flavor. A drizzling of high-quality olive oil or a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also introduce new dimensions of taste. Pair your dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal, providing a balance between rich and fresh flavors.

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with foil or transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions—this makes it a convenient meal option later on. When reheating, use a low oven temperature (around 325°F or 160°C) to avoid drying out the pasta while ensuring the filling warms thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni:

Cannelloni Ingredients

12 cannelloni tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups marinara sauce

Make sure to have everything ready before you start assembling!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cannelloni:

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, chopped spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well-blended.

Stuff the Cannelloni

Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the ricotta mixture. Set aside.

Layer the Sauce

Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni on top.

Top and Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni and sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the cannelloni rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious meal with your loved one!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Pair the dish with a light salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite flexible when it comes to ingredient substitutions. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, swap the ricotta for a cashew cream or dairy-free ricotta available at health food stores. For a gluten-free version, you can find gluten-free cannelloni or use zucchini slices as a creative alternative. Just be mindful of adjusting cooking times, as zucchini will require less baking time compared to traditional pasta.

To boost nutrition and flavor, consider incorporating other greens like kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach. Both will offer a different taste profile while still pairing beautifully with the creamy ricotta. If you're a fan of herbs, fresh dill or parsley mixed into the filling can add a delightful twist.

Make-Ahead Strategies

Preparing your cannelloni in advance is a great way to simplify your Valentine’s dinner. You can assemble the filled tubes and layer them with sauce the day before. Cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator, then simply pop it in the oven the next day without any additional prep, increasing your time to enjoy the evening.

If you prefer to go the extra mile, baking the dish fully and letting it cool, followed by storing single servings in the freezer can result in an instant romantic meal anytime you desire. Just make sure to label and date your containers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cannelloni ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan alternative like tofu for a similar texture.

→ Can I freeze the cannelloni?

Yes, uncooked stuffed cannelloni can be frozen. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

→ What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

A light green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully.