Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Manicotti
Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is a comforting Italian classic, blending savory beef, spinach, and cheese in tender pasta. These Hearty Italian Pasta dishes are perfect for any occasion, delivering rich flavors and cozy vibes. Bake these savory stuffed pasta dishes and enjoy a heartwarming meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups 60g fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup 120g ricotta cheese
- ½ cup 60g shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup 25g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Assembly:
- 12 manicotti tubes
- 2 cups 480ml marinara sauce
- ½ cup 120ml water
- ½ cup 60g shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- I cook 12 manicotti tubes in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. I drain and set aside to cool slightly for Spinach and Beef Cannelloni.
Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. I sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until soft, about 3 minutes. I add 1 lb ground beef, cooking until browned, breaking it apart, about 5–7 minutes. I stir in 2 cups chopped spinach, ½ cup ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, 1 tsp oregano, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper, cooking until spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes, for savory stuffed pasta.
Assemble the Dish
- I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. I spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom. Using a spoon or piping bag, I fill each manicotti tube with the beef-spinach mixture and arrange them in the dish. I pour the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce and ½ cup water over and around the tubes for Spinach and Beef Cannelloni.
Bake
- I cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. I remove the foil, sprinkle ½ cup mozzarella on top, and bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating perfect beef spinach pasta delights.