When it comes to hearty comfort food that feels both indulgent and nourishing, Spinach Beef Cannelloni Baked Pasta stands in a league of its own. This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta tubes filled with savory ground beef, delicate spinach, creamy ricotta, and aromatic herbs — all baked under layers of rich tomato sauce and bubbling melted cheese.

Cannelloni has long been a symbol of Italian home cooking, traditionally reserved for Sundays, holidays, or special gatherings. This version keeps that soulful essence while remaining approachable for home cooks of any skill level. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting guests, or prepping meals ahead of time, this spinach beef cannelloni recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.

Why Spinach Beef Cannelloni Is So Loved

Cannelloni differs from other pasta dishes because it’s built in layers of flavor. Instead of tossing pasta with sauce, each tube becomes a vessel for a perfectly balanced filling. The combination of beef and spinach is timeless — hearty yet fresh, rich yet balanced.

Spinach brings color, nutrients, and lightness, while beef adds depth and savory warmth. Ricotta ties everything together with creamy softness, and baking the filled cannelloni allows the flavors to meld into a cohesive, deeply satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cannelloni Filling

Cannelloni pasta tubes
Ground beef
Fresh spinach
Ricotta cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Onion
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Italian seasoning

For the Sauce & Topping

Tomato pasta sauce (marinara-style)
Mozzarella cheese
Extra Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Spinach
Wash fresh spinach thoroughly. Sauté briefly in olive oil until wilted, then drain and chop finely. Removing excess moisture is key for a firm filling.
Cook the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until no longer pink, then let cool slightly.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and one egg. Mix until well incorporated and creamy but not runny.
Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce across the bottom of a greased baking dish. This prevents sticking and keeps the pasta moist while baking.
Fill the Cannelloni Tubes
Spoon or pipe the beef-spinach mixture into uncooked cannelloni tubes. Fill gently but fully without cracking the pasta.
Assemble the Dish
Arrange filled cannelloni in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce evenly over the pasta, ensuring all tubes are well covered.
Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese for a golden, bubbly finish.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Rest and Serve
Let the cannelloni rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cannelloni

Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Excess moisture can make the filling watery.
Use a Piping Bag: This makes filling cannelloni tubes faster and cleaner.
Cover Fully with Sauce: Dry pasta needs moisture to cook evenly in the oven.
Let It Rest: This helps the dish set and makes serving easier.

Variations to Try

Cheesy Spinach Cannelloni: Replace beef with extra ricotta and mozzarella.
Spicy Beef Cannelloni: Add chili flakes or spicy marinara sauce.
White Sauce Version: Use béchamel instead of tomato sauce for a creamier dish.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cannelloni tubes.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach Beef Cannelloni Baked Pasta pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread or focaccia
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables
Light red wine or sparkling water

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This dish is ideal for meal prep:

Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
Freeze: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Cover and bake until heated through to maintain moisture.

Cultural Context & Fun Facts

Cannelloni originated in Italy as a celebratory dish, often filled with leftover meats and cheeses. Traditionally served during holidays, it symbolizes abundance and comfort. Modern versions like spinach beef cannelloni reflect how Italian cuisine adapts beautifully to contemporary kitchens worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Beef Cannelloni Baked Pasta is more than a recipe — it’s a warm, comforting experience that brings people together. Rich, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, this dish earns its place as a family dinner favorite and a special-occasion classic.