Ingredients & Roles

Below are the ingredients with precise roles so you can understand how each element builds flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps for reliable results.

1. Prep & preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish and spread a thin layer of béchamel (see sauce step) on the bottom to prevent sticking.
2. Make the filling:
   1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
   2. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
   3. Add 1 lb chopped shrimp and sauté until just pink (2–3 minutes). Avoid overcooking — shrimp will finish in the oven.
   4. Stir in 2 cups chopped spinach until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
   5. In a bowl, combine the shrimp-spinach mixture with 1 cup ricotta, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Mix until smooth and cohesive.
3. Prepare the béchamel (silky white sauce):
   1. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
   2. Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux — this removes raw flour taste.
   3. Slowly pour in 2 cups milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   4. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens to a pourable cream (about 4–6 minutes).
   5. Take off heat and stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, a pinch of nutmeg (if using), and salt & pepper to taste.
4. Fill the cannelloni:
   1. Spread a thin layer of béchamel in the bottom of your dish.
   2. Transfer the filling to a piping bag (or use a small spoon). Carefully fill each cannelloni tube — avoid overfilling to prevent splitting.
   3. Arrange the filled tubes in the baking dish, snug but not crushed.
5. Assemble & bake:
   1. Pour the remaining béchamel evenly over the cannelloni so each tube is mostly covered.
   2. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
   3. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
   4. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
   5. Let the dish rest 8–10 minutes before serving — this helps the filling set and improves slicing.

Timing tip: Total time is roughly 60–70 minutes including prep and bake. Active hands-on time is about 25–35 minutes.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

• Creamy yet balanced: The ricotta and béchamel provide lush creaminess while shrimp and spinach add lightness and texture.
• Comfort with elegance: Feels restaurant-level but is fully achievable at home.
• Highly adaptable: Swap proteins, add herbs, or fold in mushrooms or lemon zest for variety.
• Feeds a crowd: Bakes in a single dish and stores/reheats well.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cannelloni

• Avoid overcooking shrimp in the pan — they should be just pink; they’ll finish gently in the oven.
• Room-temperature ricotta mixes more smoothly and prevents a lumpy filling.
• Use a piping bag for faster, neater filling; a zip-top bag with a corner snipped works well.
• Thin the béchamel slightly if it seems too thick; cannelloni need some moisture to bake through evenly.
• Rest before serving — 8–10 minutes lets the juices settle and improves presentation.

Serving Suggestions — Complete the Meal

Pair the Shrimp and Spinach Cannelloni with sides that balance the creamy richness:

• Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for scooping up sauce.
• Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut richness and add brightness.
• Roasted asparagus or broccoli for texture and color contrast.
• Light vegetable soup as a starter, such as a simple tomato or minestrone.
• Finish: A squeeze of lemon over each portion adds a bright, fresh lift if desired.

Conclusion — Simple, Delicious & Memorable

This Shrimp and Spinach Cannelloni strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and luxury. With straightforward steps, clearly defined ingredients, and a silky béchamel that ties everything together, the recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing, elegant meal with minimal fuss. Bookmark it for dinners, celebrations, or when you want to impress without stress.