Spinach Beef Cannelloni

Name: Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 cups baby spinach; 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp Italian seasoning

Published: January 2, 2026

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Spinach Beef Cannelloni

This incredible Spinach Beef Cannelloni transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spinach Beef Cannelloni:

Lasagna Noodles: Use wide noodles for easy rolling; fresh or dried works well, but fresh offers a softer texture.
Ground Beef: Choose lean beef to avoid excess grease; it adds flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach as it’s tender and sweet; it wilts beautifully when cooked.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta ties everything together; be sure to use whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh if possible—nothing beats that nutty flavor!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade will take this dish to the next level!

For the Sauce:

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fragrant kick—don’t be shy about using it!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall flavor profile—think basil, oregano, and thyme.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spinach Beef Cannelloni:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing gets stuck in there.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper so they don’t stick together like an awkward family reunion.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted—this takes about three minutes. Mix ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning in a bowl.

Step 4: Assemble the Cannelloni

Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Take a spoonful of that tasty filling and spread it along one end of each noodle. Roll them up tightly like tiny burritos of joy!

Step 5: Bake It Up

Place rolled cannelloni seam-side down in your baking dish, pour remaining marinara sauce over them, then sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese for that golden crust we all love.

Step 6: Time to Serve

Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional five minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving—no one likes mouth burns!

Now you’re ready to serve up plates overflowing with Spinach Beef Cannelloni! Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for an unforgettable meal experience that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). Enjoy!

You Must Know About Spinach Beef Cannelloni

This showstopping Spinach Beef Cannelloni delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the beef until it’s beautifully browned, then set it aside. Next, cook the spinach until wilted while boiling the cannelloni shells. Finally, mix everything together with sauce and bake to perfection for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Add some ricotta cheese for creaminess or sprinkle in your favorite herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile of your Spinach Beef Cannelloni.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—no soggy cannelloni allowed!

Chef's Helpful Tips for Spinach Beef Cannelloni

This professional-quality Spinach Beef Cannelloni relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe with my friends turned into a mini celebration! Their smiles after tasting my Spinach Beef Cannelloni were priceless—I think one friend even tried proposing marriage to me over dinner!

FAQs

What is Spinach Beef Cannelloni?

Spinach Beef Cannelloni is a delicious Italian dish that features pasta tubes filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef and fresh spinach. This hearty meal is typically topped with rich marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese, providing a comforting and satisfying dinner option. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and nutritious spinach makes it a popular choice for families and gatherings. Spinach Beef Cannelloni not only tastes great but also delivers essential nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.

How do you prepare Spinach Beef Cannelloni?

To prepare Spinach Beef Cannelloni, start by cooking the pasta tubes until al dente. Meanwhile, sauté ground beef with garlic and onions until browned. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in ricotta cheese, seasonings, and some marinara sauce for added flavor. Stuff the cooked cannelloni with the mixture, place them in a baking dish, cover with more sauce, and top with cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden brown for a delightful main course everyone will love.

Can I make Spinach Beef Cannelloni ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Spinach Beef Cannelloni ahead of time! Prepare the filling and stuff the pasta tubes; then, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them unbaked for longer storage. When ready to serve, simply bake directly from the fridge or thaw before cooking. This convenience makes it easier to enjoy this delicious dish during busy weekdays or special occasions.

What are some variations of Spinach Beef Cannelloni?

There are several delicious variations of Spinach Beef Cannelloni that you can try! You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For vegetarian lovers, consider using mushrooms or lentils instead of meat while keeping the spinach filling intact. Additionally, experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta to enhance flavor profiles. These variations allow you to customize your dish according to dietary preferences while maintaining its delightful essence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spinach Beef Cannelloni is an exquisite dish that combines flavorsome ingredients into a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation methods and various modifications available, you can enjoy this recipe tailored to your taste preferences. Whether serving family or guests, this comforting dish offers both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite. Don’t miss out on trying this delicious recipe that brings together the goodness of spinach and beef in one fantastic meal!