Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender pasta tubes filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.

What is Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni?

Spinach and ricotta cannelloni is a classic Italian-inspired baked pasta dish where cannelloni tubes are stuffed with creamy spinach and ricotta filling, smothered in tomato sauce, and topped with cheese. Jamie Oliver’s version emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients and a simple preparation method.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Courgette Gratin
• Jamie Oliver Avocado Potato Salad
• Jamie Oliver Grilled Aubergine
• Jamie Oliver 30-Minute Tomato Soup Meal

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Comfort food classic: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.
• Vegetarian-friendly: A delicious meat-free option.
• Simple to prepare: Easy-to-follow steps for a foolproof dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or extra veggies.
• Perfect for entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that looks impressive.

Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

For the Filling:

• Spinach: 500g (4 cups), fresh or frozen, wilted and drained.
• Ricotta cheese: 250g (1 cup).
• Parmesan cheese: 50g (½ cup), grated.
• Nutmeg: A pinch.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste.

For the Sauce:

• Canned chopped tomatoes: 2 cans (400g each).
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Fresh basil leaves: A handful, roughly chopped.
• Salt and black pepper: To taste.

For Assembly:

• Cannelloni tubes: 12-14, dried or fresh.
• Mozzarella cheese: 125g (1 cup), shredded.
• Parmesan cheese: 50g (½ cup), grated.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan for the sauce.
• Mixing bowl for the filling.
• 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Piping bag or spoon for filling cannelloni tubes.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Step 1: Prepare the filling

Wilt the spinach in a skillet over medium heat or blanch it in boiling water. Drain well and chop finely. In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Make the tomato sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the canned tomatoes and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 4: Fill the cannelloni tubes

Use a piping bag or spoon to fill the cannelloni tubes with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Be sure to pack the filling evenly into each tube.

Step 5: Assemble the dish

Spread a layer of the tomato sauce over the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the tubes, ensuring they are fully covered. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve

Let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

• Garlic bread: A perfect side to mop up the sauce.
• Green salad: Adds freshness and crunch to the meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Complements the rich flavors.
• Wine pairing: A light red like Chianti or a crisp white wine.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

• Drain the spinach well: Excess water can make the filling too watery.
• Use a piping bag: This makes filling the cannelloni tubes quicker and easier.
• Ensure even coverage: Fully cover the cannelloni with sauce to prevent it from drying out.
• Experiment with herbs: Add oregano, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor.
• Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake fresh when needed.

What are the Variations of Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni?

• Meaty version: Add cooked sausage or ground beef to the tomato sauce.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
• Extra veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers in the filling.
• Cheesy overload: Mix additional cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère into the filling.

How Do I Store Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni?

• In the refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer: Freeze the unbaked assembled dish for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Nutrition Value (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fat: 18g

FAQs

Can I use fresh lasagna sheets instead of dried cannelloni tubes?

Yes, fresh lasagna sheets can be used as an alternative. Simply cut the sheets into smaller pieces, place the filling along one edge, roll them up into tubes, and arrange them seam-side down in the baking dish.

How do I prevent cannelloni from drying out in the oven?

Ensure the cannelloni tubes are completely covered with tomato sauce before baking. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking to trap moisture, then uncover for the final few minutes to brown the cheese.

Can I freeze spinach and ricotta cannelloni?

Yes, spinach and ricotta cannelloni can be frozen. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake straight from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

What is the best way to reheat leftover cannelloni?

To reheat cannelloni, cover it with foil and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 15-20 minutes. For individual portions, you can use a microwave, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a hearty and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. With its creamy filling, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy topping, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it today and bring a taste of Italy to your table!

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