Filled pasta, also referred to as stuffed pasta, brings an extra level of flavour, texture, and comfort to numerous recipes. But what are the different types of filled pasta? What popular recipes can you use them for? And what’s the best way to prepare these pasta types?
First, let’s establish the difference between filled pasta and stuffed pasta. Often, these two terms are used interchangeably, but there is a slight distinction between them.
Stuffed pasta refers to that in which small pockets of ingredients are wrapped completely in little pieces of pasta dough. If you’re thinking of ravioli, you’re right.
Filled pasta is more of an umbrella term that encompasses more pasta types. Not only does it include stuffed pasta such as ravioli, but also types of pasta in which the filler ingredients are not totally wrapped. This includes pasta cylinders such as cannelloni.
Types of Filled Pasta
Stuffed pasta – types and uses
Ravioli
When we think of stuffed pasta, ravioli are often the first type that springs to mind. That’s because they’re among the most popular, and not without reason. Typically filled with cheese, although there are many alternatives, ravioli are a simple, flavourful, and versatile pasta type that you can include in various menu items.
They are usually made in square-shaped pockets, as is our Cheese Ravioli. Nowadays, however, it’s easy to find them in different shapes. Although typically enjoyed in a recipe with marinara sauce, this pasta’s versatility leaves plenty of room for experimenting with other flavour combos.
Tortellini
Hailing from the Emilia region of Italy. Tortellini are a filled pasta, similar to ravioli. Typically filled with cheese, eggs, and sometimes meat, the main difference to tortellini is their ring-shaped form, unlike the flatter and simpler ravioli.
Our 3 Formaggi Tortellini contains a blend of three Italian cheeses—ricotta, Romano, and Parmigiano Reggiano—and are meat-free, making them a delicious vegetarian option. Their colourful equivalent are 3 Formaggi Rainbow Tortellini in which, spinach, beets, and tomato result in an attractive vibrancy.
You can use these pasta types in elegant recipes such as this Rosé Cheese Tortellini with Spinach dish or even in broth-based dishes like this “Trattoria” style Tortellini Soup.
Cappelletti
Although similar to tortellini, cappelleti are a larger type of pasta. Their name comes from the Italian word ‘capello’, meaning ‘hat’, which describes the way they’re shaped. Our Cheese Cappelletti is filled with our signature blend of ricotta, Romano, and Parmigiano cheeses for a tantalizing flavour combo.
Cooking Tip for Stuffed Pasta: Bring the water to a boil, then add your stuffed pasta, allowing it to boil for 6-8 minutes. More time gives you more tenderness, although it’s important not to allow the pasta to get too soft.
Filled pasta cylinders
Cylinders of carefully crafted dough filled with fresh, rich, and creamy ingredients make highly satisfying menu items. If cannelloni haven’t already sprung to mind, here’s why they should.
Cannelloni
Canneloni are among the most well-known and popular cylindrical-shaped pasta types. The cylinders are typically filled with cheese or meat, as well as other ingredients, then baked in the oven and often served with a sauce added on top.
- Cheese Canneloni – A traditional Italian pasta consisting of fresh IQF pasta tubes filled with a wonderful blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. They are excellent when cooked in a tomato or cream-based sauce and topped with grated cheese.
- Spinach and Cheese Cannelloni – These cylindrical pasta tubes are packed with a delectable blend of spinach and creamy cheese. Like other canneloni types, this variety is also made with fine egg pasta wrapped around a savory filling.
- Beef Cannelloni – Fresh IQF pasta tubes stuffed with ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, delicate meat, and subtle seasonings. Beef Cannelloni are a versatile dish that appeals to both meat lovers and pasta fans.
Cooking Tip: Our canneloni can be microwaved, baked in the oven, or sautéed. Once cooked, serve them with garlic bread, salad, and any Olivieri® sauce.
To take your canneloni recipe to the next level, try adding a sauce that complements its ingredients. An ideal and versatile option is our Classic Creamy Alfredo Sauce but there’s plenty of room for experimentation and creativity. See our guide to frozen pasta sauces.