Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel is a classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of spinach and ricotta cheese, enveloped in tender pasta tubes, and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests with a homemade Italian meal. In this article, we’ll explore why this recipe is a must-try, what you’ll need to make it, and provide detailed instructions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavorful and Rich: The combination of spinach, ricotta, and béchamel creates a creamy, savory filling that is both satisfying and delicious.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a meat-free meal without sacrificing taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden, bubbly béchamel sauce on top makes for a stunning presentation that will wow your guests.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cannelloni in advance and bake it just before serving, making it a convenient option for busy days.
What You’ll Need for Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel
To make Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel, you’ll need the following ingredients and tools:
- Ingredients: Fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, cannelloni pasta tubes, Parmesan cheese, butter, flour, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Tools: A large pot, a baking dish, a saucepan, a whisk, and a spoon for mixing.
How to Prepare
- Prepare the Filling: Cook the spinach, mix it with ricotta and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: Melt butter, add flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Cannelloni: Fill the pasta tubes with the spinach mixture, place them in a baking dish, and cover with béchamel sauce.
- Bake: Cook in a preheated oven until the top is golden and bubbly.
Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach provides the best flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly drained.
- Prevent Lumps in Béchamel: Whisk continuously while adding milk to the roux to prevent lumps.
- Customize the Filling: Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- Spinach: 500g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- Ricotta Cheese: 250g
- Parmesan Cheese: 50g, grated
- Cannelloni Pasta Tubes: 12-16 tubes
- Butter: 50g
- Flour: 50g
- Milk: 500ml
- Nutmeg: A pinch
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Directions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the spinach in a large pot until wilted. Drain and chop finely.
- In a bowl, mix the spinach with ricotta and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Cannelloni:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
- Place the filled tubes in a baking dish and pour the béchamel sauce over them.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden.
Variations
- Add Protein: Include cooked chicken or sausage in the filling for a heartier dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for the béchamel sauce.
- Vegan Version: Substitute ricotta with tofu and use plant-based milk and butter.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
FAQ
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
- How do I prevent the pasta from drying out? Ensure the cannelloni is fully covered with béchamel sauce before baking.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
Spinach Cannelloni with Béchamel is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy filling and rich sauce, it’s a meal that everyone will love.