Description

There’s something special about a hearty, cheesy pasta dish, and this Spinach Beef Cannelloni is no exception. Stuffed with a flavorful beef and spinach mixture, then smothered in rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese, it’s the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

12 cannelloni tubes (or manicotti shells)
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted (if using fresh) or warmed through (if using frozen).
Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl. Let cool slightly.
Stir in the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Cannelloni

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the cannelloni tubes according to package instructions, leaving them slightly undercooked (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Stuff the Cannelloni

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the beef and spinach mixture. Be gentle to avoid tearing the pasta.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a greased baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in a single layer over the sauce.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni, ensuring all tubes are well covered.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the cannelloni to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Customize the Filling: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or extra cheese for variety.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American