Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti is packed with flavor. The combination of seasoned beef, spinach, and gooey cheese creates a deliciously creamy filling inside the pasta tubes. Topped with a flavorful marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s the ultimate comfort food. This dish is hearty yet balanced, making it perfect for anyone who loves traditional Italian flavors with a little extra depth. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

• 12 manicotti or cannelloni tubes

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Cook the manicotti or cannelloni tubes according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

5. Stir in the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat.

6. Carefully stuff the cooked manicotti tubes with the beef and spinach filling, using a spoon or your hands. Place the stuffed tubes in the prepared baking dish.

7. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed manicotti, making sure each tube is covered with sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 60 minutes

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the filling or marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the beef and use additional spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

•  cheeses like provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a different twist on the classic filling.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply assemble the entire dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, if you can’t find manicotti or cannelloni tubes, you can use jumbo pasta shells. Simply cook the shells and stuff them with the same filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or preparing for a dinner party.

Can I freeze Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti?

Yes, this dish freezes well. After assembling the manicotti in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free manicotti or cannelloni tubes. Make sure your marinara sauce and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. It will give the dish a lighter, leaner taste while still providing great flavor.

How do I prevent the manicotti from falling apart?

Make sure to cook the pasta tubes al dente, so they hold their shape when stuffing. Also, be careful when handling the tubes to avoid breaking them.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, just replace the ground beef with more spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version of the dish.

What can I serve with Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light, crisp salad with balsamic vinaigrette is a great complement to the richness of the pasta.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce will add even more flavor to this dish. Just make sure it’s a thick sauce that will hold up well when baked.

Can I make the filling without ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Conclusion

Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of pasta with a savory, cheesy filling and a rich marinara sauce. This dish is flavorful, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family meal. Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or at a special gathering, Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti is a sure way to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for Italian-inspired cuisine.

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