cannelloni pasta beckons with ribbon-like tubes ready to cradle velvety ricotta, tender spinach, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Imagine a bubbling tomato-basil sauce hugging each roll as laughter fills the kitchen. This playful twist uses sun-ripened tomatoes simmered with garlic and olive oil instead of wine, while a splash of creamy coconut milk adds a whisper of silkiness. As homemade rolls nestle together in a warm casserole, the aroma transports you to a sunlit Italian village street fair. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy date nights, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering celebration you’ll crave again and again.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This cannelloni pasta
- It’s a comforting dish that warms the heart.
- Versatile fillings let you get creative with flavors.
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy days.
cannelloni pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure your cannelloni bakes perfectly.
- Step 2: Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan. Sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Step 3: Add chopped spinach to the pan. Cook until it’s wilted and vibrant. This adds a lovely color and flavor.
- Step 4: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the cooked spinach, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This will be your delicious filling!
- Step 5: Take each cannelloni tube and stuff it with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy; pack it in there!
- Step 6: Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes on top. This will keep them moist and flavorful.
- Step 7: Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cannelloni. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a bubbly, cheesy crust.
- Step 8: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Step 9: Once baked, garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your homemade cannelloni pasta!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients to make your perfect cannelloni pasta!
- 12 cannelloni tubes – the pasta shells for stuffing
- 2 cups ricotta cheese – creamy filling base
- 2 cups fresh spinach – chopped for flavor and nutrition
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – for a cheesy topping
- 2 cups tomato sauce – to enhance the dish
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for added aroma
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the garlic
- Salt – to taste
- Pepper – to taste
- Fresh basil leaves – for garnish and freshness
How to Make Cannelloni Pasta
Get ready to dive into a delightful culinary adventure! This recipe for cannelloni pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to cook, and an extra 25-30 minutes for baking. Let’s make something delicious!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure your cannelloni bakes perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan. Sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant and golden. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 3: Cook the Spinach
Add chopped spinach to the pan. Cook until it’s wilted and vibrant. This adds a lovely color and flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the cooked spinach, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. This will be your delicious filling!
Step 5: Stuff the Cannelloni
Take each cannelloni tube and stuff it with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy; pack it in there!
Step 6: Layer the Baking Dish
Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes on top. This will keep them moist and flavorful.
Step 7: Add More Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cannelloni. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a bubbly, cheesy crust.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your homemade cannelloni pasta!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (baking) |
| Total Time | 80 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot with fresh basil garnish! |
Pro Tips for Making Cannelloni Pasta
- Opt for fresh pasta sheets for a tender bite.
- Pre-cook the filling ingredients for enhanced flavor.
- Use a piping bag for easy filling without mess.
- Cover with sauce before baking to keep it moist.
- Let it rest after baking for better slicing.
How to Serve this cannelloni pasta
- Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Pair with garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- Complement with a side of steamed vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for an elegant touch.
- Offer a side of marinara sauce for extra dipping fun.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative for a cheesy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your cannelloni pasta later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cannelloni to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the cannelloni completely before freezing.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen cannelloni in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
- Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is the difference between manicotti and cannelloni?
Manicotti and cannelloni are both types of pasta that are used for stuffing, but they have some differences. Manicotti is typically larger and has ridges on the outside, while cannelloni is usually smooth and slightly smaller. Both are delicious options for filling with various ingredients, but the choice often comes down to personal preference and the specific recipe you are following.
2. What type of pasta is cannelloni?
Cannelloni is a type of pasta that is tubular in shape, designed specifically for stuffing. It is usually made from durum wheat and can be found in both fresh and dried forms. The pasta is typically about 2 inches long and 1 inch in diameter, making it perfect for holding a variety of fillings, from ricotta cheese to vegetables and sauces.
3. Do you boil cannelloni before stuffing?
Generally, you do not need to boil cannelloni before stuffing it. Many recipes call for using the pasta directly in its dry form, allowing it to cook while baking in the sauce. This method helps the pasta absorb flavors and ensures a delightful texture. However, if you prefer a softer texture, you can briefly boil the cannelloni before filling it, but be sure to let it cool before handling.
4. What do Americans call cannelloni?
In the United States, cannelloni is often referred to simply as ‘cannelloni.’ However, some people may confuse it with manicotti, which is a similar dish. Both are popular in Italian-American cuisine, and while they are distinct, they are often used interchangeably in casual conversation. Regardless of the name, they both make for a delicious meal!
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making cannelloni pasta, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dish together! Remember, cooking is all about love and creativity, so don’t hesitate to add your personal touch. Each bite is a warm hug from the kitchen, and you’ll be amazed at how simple and rewarding it is. Buon appetito!