Cannelloni with a Savory Twist

This delicious cannelloni recipe is a perfect choice for a hearty and satisfying meal. The dish features mouthwatering cannelloni tubes filled with a rich, savory mixture of minced meat, bell pepper, onion, and garlic combined with aromatic herbs. The stuffed tubes are then baked to perfection in a creamy tomato sauce topped with melted cheese. This recipe is ideal for family dinners or when you want to impress your guests with a comforting Italian-inspired dish. The preparation process is straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find, making it an accessible recipe for home cooks of all skill levels. The use of dill and personal choice of spices allows for customization according to taste preferences. Cannelloni with a savory twist will surely become a favorite for those who enjoy flavorful, homemade meals. The fusion of flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that is both comforting and refreshing at the same time. Serve it with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. Bon appétit!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Cannelloni pasta tubes
500 g minced meat
1 cup milk
1/2 bell pepper, diced
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Tomato sauce
Cheese, amount to taste
Dill, chopped
Oil for greasing

Spices:

Preferred spices

Preparation Time

Total: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by boiling the cannelloni tubes. Ensure there is enough water to prevent sticking. Boil each one for 3 minutes to keep them tender in the final dish.
Once boiled, carefully lay each cannelloni tube separately to avoid sticking together.
Prepare the filling by placing the minced meat in a large bowl.
Dice the bell pepper, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Add these to the bowl with the meat.
Cut the cheese into small cubes and include it in the mixture along with the chopped dill.
Add your choice of spices for an enhanced flavor. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients well.
Fill each cooled cannelloni tube with the prepared meat mixture.
Lightly grease a baking dish with oil and pour in a cup of milk. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish. The milk should cover them halfway.
Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the top of the cannelloni.
This step ensures that the cannelloni absorb the flavors and do not turn dry during baking.
Grate cheese over the tomato sauce. Feel free to add as much or as little cheese as you like.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 40 minutes.
Keep an eye on the cannelloni while baking to ensure they cook evenly.
Make adjustments to the baking time if necessary, depending on how brown you prefer your cheese topping.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve piping hot with a side of fresh salad or crusty garlic bread to complement the flavors.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for quick and easy meals.

Tips

Substitute spices: Use Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or oregano for different flavor profiles.
Cheese options: Opt for mozzarella for a classic taste or cheddar for a sharper flavor.
For healthier variations, consider using ground turkey or chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

Vegetarian option: Use a medley of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini instead of meat.
Gluten-free version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free cannelloni.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a light garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread or bruschetta for an Italian-themed feast.

Best Places

La Pergola - Known for its exquisite dining experience with a fantastic Italian menu. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo 101, Rome, Italy.
Osteria Francescana - Offers modern interpretations of traditional Italian dishes. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
Trattoria da Augusto - Famous for its rustic meals and vibrant atmosphere. Location: Piazza De' Renzi 15, Rome, Italy.
Seven Park Place - Renowned for its contemporary French cuisine with British influences. Location: 7-8 Park Place, St. James's, London, UK.
Narisawa - A fine dining restaurant known for its innovative approach to French cuisine with Japanese influences. Location: 2 Chome-6-15 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.
Le Bernardin - Known for its elegance and fine seafood dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY, USA.
Astrid y Gastón - Offers a unique Peruvian dining experience. Location: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro, Lima, Peru.
Azurmendi - Recognized for its sustainable practices and exceptional Basque cuisine. Location: Barrio Legina, s/n, 48195 Larrabetzu, Biscay, Spain.
White Rabbit - Known for its panoramic views and modern Russian menu. Location: Smolenskaya Square, 3, Moscow, Russia.
Geranium - Offers a journey of seasonal and contemporary dishes. Location: Per Henrik Lings Alle 4, 8., Copenhagen, Denmark.