Cannelloni with Ground Meat and Cream Sauce

This delightful dish of cannelloni combines savory ground meat, creamy sauce, and a cheesy topping, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its comforting ingredients are sure to please everyone. The pasta tubes are generously filled with seasoned meat, providing a hearty texture with every bite. Topped with melted cheese and a creamy sauce, this baked dish is both indulgent and satisfying. The preparation is simple yet delivers a rich taste that leaves a lasting impression. With only a few steps involved, this recipe can be made in under an hour. The flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating a harmonious blend of spices, cheese, and cream. Customize the spices and cheese to fit your personal preferences for a unique take on a classic dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Cannelloni pasta: 250 g
Ground meat: 400 g
Grated cheese: 200 g
Onion: 1 medium-sized, finely chopped
Sweet cream: for pouring

Spices

Seasonings of choice: salt, pepper, oregano, paprika powder

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the ingredients: Begin by gathering and measuring all the ingredients for the cannelloni.
Cook the meat mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Season the meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned through.
Add spices: Sprinkle the meat mixture with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika powder to taste. Stir to combine.
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (about 390°F) and let it heat while you prepare the rest.
Fill the cannelloni tubes: Using a small spoon, carefully stuff each cannelloni tube with the cooked meat mixture.
Cheese stuff the ends: Seal the ends of each filled tube with grated cheese.
Arrange in a baking dish: Lay the prepared cannelloni tubes in a single layer inside a greased baking dish.
Pour the cream: Generously pour sweet cream over the arranged cannelloni, ensuring it covers most of the tubes.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese evenly over the dish for a cheesy crust.
Bake in the oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Check for doneness: Ensure the pasta is tender by piercing with a fork; it should slide in easily.
Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Garnish if desired: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Pair with sides: Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy your creation: Delight in the rich, cheesy flavors of your homemade cannelloni.
Store leftovers: If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Reheat properly: Gently reheat in the oven for best results, to keep the cheese crisp and bubbly.
Share with friends: This dish is excellent for gatherings, offering a comforting homemade meal.
Experiment with flavors: Don't hesitate to adjust spices and cheeses for future culinary adventures.

Tips

Cheese options: Try using mozzarella or a mix of cheeses for different textures and flavors.
Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or roasted vegetables.
Cream variations: For a lighter option, use evaporated milk instead of cream.

Variations

Substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
Add spinach or mushrooms to the meat mixture for additional nutrition and flavor diversity.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a side of Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Consider serving with a fresh baguette or garlic bread to complement the creamy pasta.

Nutritions

Approximate Values Per Serving:

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Best Places

La Trattoria - Authentic Italian culinary experience. Location: 123 Pasta Lane, Rome, Italy.
Casa di Cannelloni - Known for innovative variations, blending traditional and modern flavors. Location: 56 Flavor Avenue, Florence, Italy.
The Italian Kitchen - Popular for rich, creamy cannelloni. Location: 789 Gourmet Street, Naples, Italy.
Bella Cucina - Specializes in handmade pasta dishes. Location: 101 Cuisine Court, Milan, Italy.
Ristorante Fiorentina - Offers a unique take with regional ingredients. Location: 22 Piazza Gourmet, Venice, Italy.
Amore Ristorante - Casual dining with a family-friendly atmosphere. Location: 67 Love Lane, Barcelona, Spain.
Pasta House - Known for a wide range of pasta delights. Location: 99 Pasta Place, Paris, France.
Osteria al Dente - Offers only organic ingredients. Location: 88 Freshway Boulevard, Berlin, Germany.
Ravioli & Co. - Cozy setting for intimate dining. Location: 55 Ravioli Road, New York City, USA.
Trattoria Vesuvio - Traditional recipes with a modern twist. Location: 111 Modern Alley, London, UK.