Scrumptious Cannelloni with Ground Meat and Tomato Sauce

This cannelloni recipe is a delightful blend of tender pasta tubes filled with seasoned ground pork and beef, enveloped in a rich tomato and cream sauce. Topped with a layer of melted mozzarella or parmesan cheese, this dish offers a comforting yet sophisticated meal. The preparation is straightforward, and the result is a lush, savory pasta bake that captivates the senses. The balance of flavors from the seasoned meat filling and the luscious sauce ensures every bite is fulfilling. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe allows you to serve an elegant dish with relatively little effort. Whether you're an experienced home cook or a beginner attempting a baked pasta, this recipe accommodates various skill levels. Potential for creative adjustments, catering to various dietary preferences, provides flexibility. With proper side dishes and garnishes, this dish becomes a centerpiece of a memorable meal. Enjoy the rewarding experience of baking this delicious meal from scratch!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Cannelloni pasta (tubes): 12-16 tubes
• Ground meat (pork and beef mix): 500 g
• Sweet cream (Rama 10%): 300 ml
• Canned tomatoes in juice (preferably crushed): 2 cans
• Cheese (Mozzarella or Parmesan): 200 g, grated

Spices

• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Additional spices: as per your preference (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder, oregano)

Preparation Time

Total time: 60 minutes (including 15 minutes prep and 45 minutes cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Meat Filling: Begin by seasoning the ground meat with your choice of spices. A mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder works well to enhance flavors.
2. Fill the Cannelloni Tubes: Take each cannelloni tube and carefully stuff it with the seasoned meat mixture. Ensure they are packed tightly but gently to prevent breaking.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the filled cannelloni tubes in a single layer in a suitable baking dish.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix the sweet cream with the canned tomatoes. For enhanced flavor, sprinkle in a little salt and pepper if desired.
5. Pour the Sauce: Evenly distribute the creamy tomato sauce over the arranged cannelloni. Ensure each tube is well-coated to prevent drying during baking.
6. Initial Baking: Preheat the oven to 180-200°C (356-392°F). Carefully slide the baking dish into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes.
7. Add Cheese Topping: Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the grated cheese over the partially baked cannelloni.
8. Final Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to settle for a few minutes before serving. This resting stage enables the flavors to meld beautifully.
10. Garnish (Optional): Serve with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips

• Tip 1: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Tip 2: If the cannelloni tubes break, layer the broken pieces with the filling into the dish rather than discarding them.
• Tip 3: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat or sauce.

Nutritions

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 25 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbs: 50 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with spinach and ricotta cheese or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and nuts.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cannelloni tubes or large pasta shells.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.
• Offer garlic bread as an appetizing side for added zest.

Best Places

• La Trattoria - Enjoy authentic Italian flavors in a cozy setting. Location: 32 Via Roma, Florence, Italy.
• Osteria Francescana - World-class dining experience with traditional and contemporary dishes. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
• Bacchanalia - For a refined Italian dining experience in the heart of the city. Location: 2417 Piedmont Rd, Atlanta, USA.
• Ristorante A Mano - Homemade pastas prepared with high-quality ingredients. Location: Talstraße 2, Berlin, Germany.
• Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto - Offers a friendly atmosphere with classic Roman dishes. Location: Via del Casaletto 45, Rome, Italy.
• Café Sydney - Combines excellent views with a refined Italian menu. Location: 5th Floor, Customs House, Sydney, Australia.
• Le Jules Verne - Offers sophisticated dining in an iconic location. Location: Eiffel Tower, Avenue Gustave Eiffel, Paris, France.
• Ristorante Aroma - Overlooks the Colosseum with an unforgettable meal. Location: Via Labicana 125, Rome, Italy.
• Locanda Locatelli - Michelin-starred elegance in central London. Location: 8 Seymour Street, London, UK.
• Ernesto's House - A hidden gem offering homemade dishes in a rustic setting. Location: 1079 Cedar Lane, Toronto, Canada.