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; 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni for a special dinner, and what better occasion than Valentine’s Day! The richness of the ricotta blends beautifully with the fresh spinach, creating a decadent filling that feels elegant yet comforting. I've perfected this recipe over time, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. It makes an impressive addition to any romantic dinner, and I can’t wait for you to try it out and impress your loved one with your culinary skills!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:28:19.611Z

When I decided to make Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni for Valentine’s Day, I wanted to create something special that also felt personal. I sautéed the spinach with garlic, which adds a depth of flavor that complements the creamy ricotta. The addition of nutmeg brings warmth to the filling, and trust me, a pinch goes a long way!

Assembling the cannelloni is a bit of a labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute. I like to finish with a rich tomato sauce, topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of cheese. It not only looks beautiful but tastes divine!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The creamy ricotta and fresh spinach combination is irresistible.
Homemade cannelloni that adds a personal touch to your dinner.
Great for impressing your loved one while being simple to prepare.

      

Perfecting the Filling

When combining ingredients for the filling, it's essential to ensure the spinach is well-drained after cooking. Excess moisture can create a watery filling, which can lead to soggy cannelloni. I usually place the cooked spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any remaining liquid before mixing it with the ricotta and seasonings. This little step makes a big difference in achieving a rich and creamy texture.

The seasoning is pivotal in bringing the filling to life. Nutmeg adds warmth and depth, while the garlic enhances the savory notes of the dish. I recommend tasting the mixture before filling the cannelloni to adjust the salt and pepper to your desired taste. This is also a great opportunity to experiment—consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or some fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh finish.

Assembling with Care

Filling the cannelloni can be a bit tricky, but a piping bag makes the process much easier and less messy. If you don’t have one, a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off can work just as well. Make sure the cannelloni tubes are tightly filled, but avoid overstuffing to prevent tearing or bursting during baking. If you run out of filling, it's okay to prep a few extra cannelloni to ensure all the mixture is used.

As you assemble the dish, cover the bottom of the baking dish adequately with marinara sauce to prevent sticking. A thin layer ensures the cannelloni cook evenly and absorb some of that delicious flavor. As a tip, if you have leftover sauce, drizzle it over the top at the end of baking for an even richer topping when serving.

Ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Cannelloni

For the Cannelloni

12 cannelloni tubes
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

3 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to cover the filled cannelloni with sauce before baking!

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

In a bowl, combine ricotta, cooked spinach, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Fill the Cannelloni

Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture using a piping bag or spoon.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, combine marinara sauce with dried oregano and simmer for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled cannelloni on top and cover with the remaining sauce.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan before serving.

Let it sit for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling and fill the cannelloni a day in advance, keeping them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. Just be sure to add a bit more cooking time if baking straight from the fridge; around 10-15 minutes extra should suffice.

If you're looking to freeze the assembled dish, use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. You might want to cover it with foil for the first half of baking to ensure even heating without overcooking the top.

Serving Suggestions

This cannelloni pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and bright dressing contrast the richness of the cannelloni, creating a balanced meal. To elevate your dinner further, consider adding some garlic bread on the side to soak up the marinara sauce.

For a wine pairing, a light red, such as Pinot Noir or Chianti, complements the creamy ricotta and spinach filling. Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio can provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall flavor experience of your romantic Valentine’s dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What if I can't find cannelloni tubes?

You can use lasagna sheets and roll the filling in them instead.

→ Is there a vegetarian sauce I can use?

Any meat-free marinara can be used, or you can make a homemade tomato sauce.