Cannelloni, a classic Italian dish, has gained popularity worldwide for its rich flavors, comforting texture, and versatility. There are countless variations of this dish, but all share one common factor: they offer a mouthwatering combination of pasta, filling, and a savory sauce. In this article, we will explore several different takes on cannelloni, featuring a variety of ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional meat-based filling or something with a creamy, cheesy twist, these recipes will guide you toward creating an unforgettable cannelloni experience.
1. Delicious Meat Cannelloni: A Family Favorite
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners, with a perfect balance of rich flavors and hearty textures. The combination of ground beef, a homemade béchamel sauce, and grated cheese makes it a classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients:
- 12 cannelloni sheets
- 500g ground beef
- 1 large onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 100g grated cheese
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
- Cook the cannelloni sheets according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and grated carrot. Cook until tender and golden.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add the tomato and broth: Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and apple cider vinegar. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Make the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil, add flour, and cook until golden. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Fill the cannelloni: Spoon the meat filling into the cannelloni tubes, place in a greased baking dish, and cover with béchamel sauce and grated cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
This recipe serves as a hearty and flavorful dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.
2. Homemade Minced Meat Cannelloni
A variation of the traditional meat cannelloni, this version uses a blend of pork and beef for the filling. It’s simple to make but packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 350g mixed minced meat (pork and beef)
- 20 sheets of cannelloni pasta
- 1 onion
- 230g crushed or fried tomatoes
- Spices to taste (oregano, basil, black pepper)
- Grated cheese for gratinating
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
For the béchamel sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil
- 3 tbsp flour
- 500ml warm milk
- Nutmeg to taste
- Salt to taste
Preparation:
- Prepare the filling: Cook the chopped onion with olive oil in a pan. Add the minced meat, cook through, and stir in crushed tomatoes and spices. Let the sauce reduce.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the cannelloni sheets in salted water, drain, and lay them on a cloth to dry.
- Make the béchamel: Melt butter with sunflower oil, add flour, and cook until golden. Slowly add milk, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Season with nutmeg and salt.
- Assemble: Fill each pasta tube with the meat mixture, place in a baking dish, and cover with béchamel sauce and grated cheese.
- Bake: Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
This version is perfect for those looking for a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare.
3. Homemade Stuffed Cannelloni
For those who prefer a more traditional Italian filling, this recipe blends beef with spinach and ricotta cheese. The fresh spinach adds a layer of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the meat.
Ingredients:
- 12 sheets of cannelloni pasta
- 500g minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or mix)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 200g fresh spinach (optional)
- 200g ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional)
- Olive oil
For the tomato sauce:
- 500g crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
For the cheese topping:
- 200g grated mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
- Make the tomato sauce: Sauté onion and garlic, then add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer until thickened.
- Prepare the filling: Cook onions, garlic, and ground meat, adding spinach if desired. Mix with ricotta, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook the cannelloni: Boil pasta sheets, drain, and pat dry.
- Assemble: Fill the pasta with the meat and cheese mixture, roll, and place in a baking dish. Cover with tomato sauce and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes at 180°C until golden.
This recipe brings together the perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors.
4. Minced Meat Cannelloni with Vegetables
This variation incorporates a blend of vegetables with minced meat to enhance the filling. The added textures from the carrots, celery, and herbs create a richer flavor profile.
Ingredients:
- 12 sheets of cannelloni pasta
- 500g minced meat
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated or diced
- 1 stalk of celery, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- Tomato sauce or béchamel sauce
- Extra cheese for sprinkling
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 180°C.
- Cook the pasta: Boil the cannelloni sheets according to the package instructions.
- Prepare the filling: Sauté the vegetables and meat in olive oil until golden. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cool slightly, then mix in egg, breadcrumbs, and cheese.
- Fill the pasta: Stuff each cannelloni sheet with the meat mixture and roll them up.
- Assemble and bake: Place the filled cannelloni in a baking dish, cover with tomato or béchamel sauce, and top with grated cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
This variant combines the richness of meat with the health benefits of vegetables, making for a wholesome and tasty meal.
5. Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole
This recipe is a decadent twist on the classic ravioli, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. The creamy ricotta mixture combined with the meat sauce creates an irresistible flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (25 oz) frozen cheese ravioli
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Preparation:
- Prepare the meat sauce: Brown the ground beef or sausage, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the creamy filling: Combine ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a baking dish, then layer with ravioli. Spread the creamy mixture on top and add spinach if using. Layer again with ravioli, sauce, and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden.
This casserole-style dish offers a creamy and cheesy twist on traditional ravioli, making it a crowd-pleaser.
These recipes provide a wide range of options, from traditional meat-filled cannelloni to inventive casseroles. Whether you’re seeking a classic meal or something new and exciting, each dish is sure to delight. Enjoy preparing these hearty meals that will bring comfort and joy to your table!