Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Stuffed with a flavorful beef filling and topped with a rich, creamy mozzarella sauce, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings
Makes: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1.2 kg (about 4-5 cups) minced beef
- 2 chicken eggs
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Dried ground sweet paprika to taste
- 1 onion, finely chopped
For the Cannelloni:
- 20–25 cannelloni tubes
- Olive oil for greasing
For the Mozzarella Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Beef Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the minced beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and sweet paprika. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Once cooled, mix in the eggs to bind the filling.
- Prepare the Mozzarella Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in mozzarella cheese, salt, and nutmeg (if using) until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Cannelloni:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Stuff each cannelloni tube with the beef filling and arrange them in the prepared dish.
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour the creamy mozzarella sauce evenly over the stuffed cannelloni.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Accompany with steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or extra mozzarella on top for indulgence.
Cooking Tips
- Use a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner cut off to fill the cannelloni tubes easily.
- For a spicier flavor, add chili flakes to the beef mixture.
- Pre-cook the cannelloni slightly if specified by the package instructions.
- For a creamier sauce, substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from the beef and eggs.
- Provides calcium and Vitamin D from the mozzarella sauce.
- Includes essential nutrients like iron from the beef and fiber from the pasta.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten (from the flour and cannelloni).
- Contains dairy (from mozzarella, Parmesan, and butter).
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the unbaked or baked dish for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with rich, savory flavors.
- Perfectly creamy and cheesy topping.
- Great for meal prep or freezing ahead.
- Comfort food at its best, ideal for gatherings or family meals.
Conclusion
Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful beef filling and creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use other meats for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute beef with turkey, chicken, or pork.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the beef with sautéed spinach, ricotta, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
3. What if I don’t have cannelloni tubes?
Use lasagna sheets; roll the filling into the sheets and place them seam-side down.
4. Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?
Yes, but freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and gives a creamier sauce.
5. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well.
6. How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?
Ensure the sauce covers the cannelloni completely to keep it moist during baking.
7. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight before baking.
8. How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden brown, and the cannelloni should be tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?
Yes, try Gruyere, Fontina, or even cream cheese for a twist.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent accompaniments.