Creamy Ricotta Spinach and Chicken Cannelloni

Creamy Ricotta Spinach and Chicken Cannelloni: A Comforting Italian Classic

If you’re looking for a comforting, homemade Italian dish that’s both creamy and flavorful, this Creamy Ricotta Spinach and Chicken Cannelloni is the perfect recipe. Packed with a savory filling of tender chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta, and topped with a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this baked pasta dish is a satisfying meal for any occasion. Best of all, it comes together in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Cannelloni:

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cooked chicken breasts, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1 bag (8-10 ounces) baby spinach
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup pasta sauce
• 1 1/2 cups half & half
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Cannelloni

1. Begin by cooking the cannelloni tubes for 5 minutes in boiling water. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the cannelloni aside to cool, making them easier to handle when stuffing.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

3. Cook the Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 2 minutes until they become translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Stir in the milk and simmer for 2 minutes, letting most of the liquid evaporate.
4. Mix in the ricotta cheese, then add the baby spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

4. Stuff the Cannelloni

1. Spread 1 cup of pasta sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Using a spoon, piping bag, or even your hands, stuff each cannelloni tube with the chicken and ricotta mixture.
3. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes in a single layer on top of the pasta sauce in the baking dish.

5. Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half & half, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste.
2. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the stuffed cannelloni in the baking dish.

6. Bake the Cannelloni

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the cream sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.

7. Serve

1. Allow the cannelloni to rest for about 3 minutes to let the sauce thicken further.
2. Spoon some of the sauce over the cannelloni before serving and enjoy warm.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Comforting: The combination of ricotta cheese and half & half creates a rich and creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
• Balanced & Flavorful: With savory chicken, fresh spinach, and the aromatic flavors of basil, oregano, and nutmeg, this dish delivers a wonderful blend of textures and tastes.
• Quick & Easy: Despite the elegant appearance, this baked cannelloni dish comes together in under an hour, making it great for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Tips for Success

• Use a Piping Bag: For easier stuffing of the cannelloni tubes, use a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Boil the cannelloni tubes just until al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven and absorb some of the sauce.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to swap the chicken for ground beef or sausage, or even use a vegetarian filling with mushrooms or ricotta.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ricotta Spinach and Chicken Cannelloni is a classic Italian comfort food that brings together the perfect mix of creamy textures and hearty flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s sure to impress. With minimal prep and a quick bake time, this dish offers a gourmet feel without the fuss!

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