Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that brings the warmth of traditional Italian cooking right to your dining table. This Minced Beef Cannelloni is a symphony of flavors – tender pasta tubes generously filled with savory beef, nestled in a rich tomato sauce, and blanketed with a silky béchamel that promises to make every bite pure comfort.
Ingredients
- Dry Cannelloni: 12 pieces
- Minced Beef: 300g (10.5 oz)
- Tomato Sauce: 200ml (6.8 fl oz)
- Garlic: 1 clove, chopped
- Onion: 1 small, chopped
- Salt: 1 tbsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Butter: 30g (1 oz)
- Flour: 30g (1 oz)
- Milk: 500ml (16.9 fl oz)
- Grated Cheese (Mozzarella or Emmental): 100g (3.5 oz)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Beef Filling
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped garlic and onion until translucent. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the meat is fully browned. Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce to enhance the flavor and create a moist filling.
2. Stuffing the Cannelloni
Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the prepared beef mixture. Ensure each tube is generously and evenly filled for a consistent eating experience.
3. Creating the Béchamel Sauce
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk, continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until the sauce thickens to a silky consistency.
4. Assembling the Dish
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer. Pour the béchamel sauce over the cannelloni, ensuring complete coverage. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top for a golden, bubbling finish.
5. Baking to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the cannelloni for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly crispy.
6. Final Touches
Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Cooking Details
- Serves: 4
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 28g
Why This Dish is Nutritionally Awesome
This Minced Beef Cannelloni isn’t just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
- Protein-Packed: Lean beef provides essential proteins for muscle maintenance
- Calcium-Rich: Cheese and milk contribute to bone health
- Balanced Meal: Combines proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats
- Vegetable Nutrients: Onions and garlic offer immune-boosting properties
Pro Tips
- Time-Saver: Use quick-cooking cannelloni to reduce preparation time
- Dietary Flexibility: Easily adaptable to vegetarian diets by substituting beef with plant-based mince or lentils
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and béchamel sauce in advance for easier assembly
A true celebration of Italian comfort food, this Minced Beef Cannelloni promises to become a family favorite that brings warmth and joy to your table!