Cannelloni, with its rich, hearty fillings and creamy sauces, is a beloved Italian classic. Whether you’re preparing a meal for family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself to something comforting, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction. This article takes a closer look at four delectable recipes for meat-filled cannelloni, each featuring different variations on a timeless theme.
1. Delicious Meat Cannelloni: A Flavorful Feast
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that combines savory meat, aromatic vegetables, and a smooth, creamy sauce. This version of meat cannelloni brings together these elements in perfect harmony, making it a fantastic dish to share with loved ones. The recipe involves layers of flavor from the beef, carrots, onions, and garlic, all simmered in a rich broth and tomato sauce, while a velvety béchamel sauce tops it all off.
Ingredients for Delicious Meat Cannelloni:
- Cannelloni Sheets: The large, hollow tubes are perfect for stuffing. You’ll need 12 sheets for this recipe.
- Ground Beef: 500g of high-quality ground beef provides the meatiness and texture for the filling.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables form the base for the meat filling.
- Carrot: Grated carrots add natural sweetness and extra texture to the filling.
- Crushed Tomatoes & Beef Broth: These liquids create a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the meat.
- Milk: A cup of milk is essential for making the béchamel sauce.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A small amount of vinegar adds a tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
- Grated Cheese: A generous handful of cheese brings richness to the dish.
- Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg: Basic seasonings to bring out the best in the ingredients.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cannelloni Sheets
Begin by cooking the cannelloni sheets according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside on a clean kitchen cloth to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot, and cook until tender and golden. Then, add the ground beef, cooking it until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the apple cider vinegar and allow the mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
Step 4: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat olive oil, add flour, and cook until golden. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg for flavor.
Step 5: Fill and Roll the Cannelloni
Fill each cooked cannelloni sheet with the meat mixture. Roll up the sheets and place them in a greased baking dish.
Step 6: Top with Béchamel and Cheese
Cover the cannelloni with béchamel sauce and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and serve.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The combination of tender meat, creamy béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible.
2. Homemade Minced Meat Cannelloni: A Traditional Delight
This second variation uses a different meat combination — a mix of pork and beef. The minced meat filling is seasoned with classic Italian spices, and the addition of special gratin cheese elevates the dish. The béchamel sauce is prepared similarly to the previous recipe, resulting in a velvety topping that complements the savory filling.
Ingredients for Homemade Minced Meat Cannelloni:
- Mixed Minced Meat: 350g of a mix of pork and beef gives the filling a juicy, flavorful base.
- Cannelloni Pasta: 20 sheets of pasta for a larger batch.
- Crushed or Fried Tomatoes: A can of crushed or fried tomatoes adds richness to the filling.
- Spices: Oregano, basil, and black pepper to season the meat.
- Special Grated Cheese: Use a high-quality cheese for gratinating, such as Parmesan or Gruyère.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables and meat.
- Butter and Sunflower Oil: Used to make the béchamel sauce.
- Warm Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Sauté chopped onions in olive oil with a pinch of salt until tender. Add the minced meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and your choice of spices, then simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens. Allow the mixture to cool before filling the cannelloni.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the cannelloni sheets in salted boiling water for 10-15 minutes, then drain and place them on a clean cloth to dry.
Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter with sunflower oil. Add the flour and cook briefly before gradually adding the warm milk, stirring constantly. Season with nutmeg and salt, and cook until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cannelloni
Spread a layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking tray. Fill the cooked pasta sheets with the meat mixture and place them in the tray. Cover with the remaining béchamel sauce and sprinkle with grated cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Cannelloni
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cannelloni for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
This recipe offers a more traditional approach to meat cannelloni, with its hearty filling and indulgent béchamel sauce. It’s perfect for those who love classic Italian flavors with a comforting twist.
3. Homemade Stuffed Cannelloni: A Meat and Cheese Extravaganza
For a rich, cheesy version, stuffed cannelloni takes the dish to a whole new level. Here, ground beef is mixed with spinach (for a burst of color and nutrients) and ricotta cheese. The combination of spinach and ricotta adds a creamy, light filling that contrasts beautifully with the meat.
Ingredients for Homemade Stuffed Cannelloni:
- Cannelloni Sheets: 12 sheets for this recipe.
- Minced Meat: 500g of beef, pork, chicken, or a mix.
- Ricotta or Cottage Cheese: 200g for a creamy filling.
- Spinach: 200g of fresh spinach adds a nutritious touch.
- Egg: To bind the filling together.
- Tomato Sauce: Made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 200g for the topping.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large frying pan, heat olive oil and cook onions and garlic until golden. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until golden. If using spinach, add it to the pan and cook until wilted. Once the mixture cools slightly, mix with ricotta cheese, a beaten egg, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Cook the cannelloni sheets according to the package instructions, drain, and let them cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Cannelloni
Fill each pasta sheet with the meat and cheese mixture. Place them in a greased baking dish and cover with tomato sauce and grated mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes until golden. Let it rest before serving.
This version of stuffed cannelloni is a luxurious and filling option, with the richness of the ricotta balancing out the hearty meat filling.
4. Minced Meat Cannelloni: The Ultimate Comfort Food
The last recipe is a simple yet satisfying variation that combines minced beef with vegetables like carrot and celery, creating a flavorful filling that is light yet comforting. This version is a great way to use pantry staples while still making a dish that feels special.
Ingredients for Minced Meat Cannelloni:
- Cannelloni Sheets: 12 sheets for this recipe.
- Minced Meat: 500g of beef, pork, or a mix.
- Vegetables: Onion, garlic, carrot, and celery add depth and texture to the filling.
- Breadcrumbs and Grated Cheese: For binding the filling together and adding a bit of crunch.
- Tomato Sauce or Béchamel: For the topping.
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Sauté the vegetables in olive oil until tender. Add the minced meat and cook through, seasoning with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Once the filling cools, mix in egg, breadcrumbs, and grated cheese.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
Fill each pasta sheet with the meat mixture and place in a greased baking dish. Cover with tomato sauce or béchamel and sprinkle with cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest before serving.
This variation offers a more traditional take on cannelloni, with the added flavor of sautéed vegetables and a savory meat filling.
Conclusion
Cannelloni, in its many variations, is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you choose a classic beef filling, mix it up with pork, or opt for a rich cheese and spinach combination, each version offers something unique. From the initial preparation of the pasta to the final golden, bubbly dish, making meat cannelloni at home allows you to enjoy this timeless Italian favorite in the warmth of your own kitchen. Each bite is filled with the richness of flavors, making these recipes perfect for family gatherings, festive meals, or any occasion when you want to serve something truly special.