Hey there, pasta lovers! If you’re ready to dive into a dish that’s rich, comforting, and brings a little slice of Italy to your table, you’re in for a treat with this classic Beef Cannelloni. Imagine tender pasta tubes filled with seasoned beef, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. This isn’t just any pasta dish—Cannelloni is like a hug on a plate, with that old-school Italian-American charm we all love.
Table of Contents
This recipe is easy to follow, but it does take a bit of prep. So, roll up your sleeves, pour yourself a glass of wine (if that’s your style), and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – lean if possible, for a hearty but not greasy filling
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (100g) fresh spinach – optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor and nutrition
- 1 cup (240g) ricotta cheese – gives a creamy texture inside the cannelloni
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds that cheesy kick!
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme, or any dried herbs you like
- 1 large egg – helps bind the filling together
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce – choose your favorite brand or make it homemade for extra love
- ½ cup (120ml) beef broth – adds depth to the sauce
- 1 tsp sugar – to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional but delicious)
For Assembly:
- 8-10 cannelloni tubes – check the package for exact servings, or you can use fresh pasta sheets if you want to roll them yourself!
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that golden, bubbly top
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
- Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. - Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned all the way through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. - Season and Add Spinach
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Add the spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt down into the mixture. Stir until well combined and then remove the skillet from heat. - Combine with Ricotta and Parmesan
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly, then add in the egg to help bind the filling. Set this aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Simmer the Marinara
Pour the marinara sauce into a medium saucepan and add the beef broth and sugar. Stir to combine, then let it simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. This step helps blend the flavors together and thicken the sauce slightly. - Season with Fresh Basil
For a fresh twist, toss in a handful of chopped basil leaves during the last minute of simmering. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
- Fill the Cannelloni Tubes
Spoon the beef mixture into a piping bag or use a small spoon to carefully stuff each cannelloni tube. Fill them generously, but be careful not to overstuff, as the filling might spill out during baking. - Layer the Sauce and Cannelloni
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer over the sauce. - Cover with Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the cannelloni. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Cannelloni
- Bake Until Bubbly
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Let it Rest
Allow the dish to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the sauce a chance to settle, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Beef Cannelloni
- Make-Ahead Friendly
You can prepare the cannelloni up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for prepping in advance! - Fresh Pasta Option
If you have access to fresh pasta sheets, try rolling them around the filling instead of using the tubes. Simply cut the sheets to size, fill, and roll tightly. - Customize the Filling
Cannelloni is versatile! Swap the beef for ground turkey, add a touch of nutmeg for a hint of warmth, or even sneak in more veggies if you like. - For a Crispier Top
Turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. This will create a beautifully browned and slightly crispy cheese layer.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Cannelloni pairs wonderfully with a fresh Caesar salad, some garlic bread, and maybe a side of sautéed greens. And don’t forget to keep a good Italian red wine on hand if you’re celebrating this meal! Think Chianti or a Sangiovese to match the richness of the beef and cheese.
FAQs
Can I freeze cannelloni ?
Absolutely! Cannelloni freezes well and can be a lifesaver for busy nights. Simply assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for about an hour or until bubbly.
Do I need to pre-cook the cannelloni tubes?
Most store-bought cannelloni doesn’t require pre-cooking, but check the package instructions. The sauce and steam from baking will soften the pasta.
What’s the difference between cannelloni and manicotti?
Though they look similar, cannelloni tubes are typically smooth, while manicotti has ridges. They’re both stuffed pasta dishes, but cannelloni tends to have a finer texture, making it a bit more delicate in flavor.
A Little Love Note from the Kitchen
Cannelloni is one of those dishes that feels like it came straight from Nonna’s (grandma’s) kitchen, with all the cozy vibes and classic Italian-American flavors we know and love. It’s perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a comfort meal on a chilly night. When you sit down to this plate of saucy, cheesy goodness, I hope it brings a little warmth and joy to your day.
“Life is a combination of magic and pasta.” – Federico Fellini
