If you’re in the mood for a hearty and comforting dish, look no further than this Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender pasta, savory meat filling, and creamy béchamel that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress everyone at the table.
Imagine rolling perfectly cooked pasta tubes stuffed with seasoned ground meat, all enveloped in a rich béchamel sauce that adds a luscious touch. This Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and joy with every bite.
A Hearty Italian Cannelloni Dish
This Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The dish features tender pasta filled with a savory meat mixture, topped with a silky béchamel sauce.
The result is a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate. When served hot from the oven, the golden cheese bubbling on top creates an inviting allure that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients That Sing
The essential elements of this dish include plump cannelloni pasta tubes, which serve as a vessel for the rich filling. Ground beef or pork, seasoned to perfection, combines with ingredients like garlic, onion, and ricotta cheese to create a mouthwatering stuffing.
Moreover, the béchamel sauce adds a creamy texture, enhancing the overall experience. Topping it all off with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan provides a satisfying crust, making every bite a cheesy delight.
Preparing the Filling
Begin by sautéing finely chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil until softened. This basic yet flavorful preparation sets the stage for the ground meat, which is added next. Once the meat is browned and seasoned with oregano, it’s mixed with ricotta cheese and half of the Parmesan.
This filling is the heart of your Cannelloni dish, delivering savory goodness that pairs beautifully with the creamy béchamel.
Assembling Your Cannelloni
Filling the cannelloni tubes can be done using a piping bag or a small spoon. Carefully stuff each tube until full, ensuring an even distribution of the meat mixture.
After filling, layer half of the béchamel sauce at the bottom of a rustic baking dish. Carefully arrange the stuffed cannelloni on the sauce, then generously pour the remaining béchamel over the top.
Baking to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven. The baking time is crucial; an initial 25 minutes covered preserves moisture, followed by a further 10 minutes uncovered to achieve that coveted golden-brown top.
Once baked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. The anticipation is worth it when you see the melted cheese and creamy sauce awaiting on your plate.
A Dish for Every Occasion
Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce is not just a meal; it’s perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, this dish impresses everyone at the table.
It’s a wonderful centerpiece that brings warmth and satisfaction to those gathered for the occasion. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and enjoy the delightful experience of sharing this Italian classic with loved ones.
A Hearty Italian Cannelloni Dish
This Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The dish features tender pasta filled with a savory meat mixture, topped with a silky béchamel sauce. The result is a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni pasta tubes
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups béchamel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the meat mixture using a piping bag or a small spoon.
- Spread half of the béchamel sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni on top, then pour the remaining béchamel sauce over them.
- Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cannelloni with Meat and Béchamel Sauce!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
