Ingredients

Meat Filling:

• 600g (1.3 lbs) minced meat (beef, pork, or a blend)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Tomato Sauce:

• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme, or a pre-mixed blend)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

For Assembling:

• 150–200g cannelloni pasta tubes (about 12–15 tubes)
• 200g (1.5 cups) shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden.
2. Cook the Meat: Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh dill. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Incorporate the Eggs: Once the mixture has cooled, add the eggs and mix thoroughly to bind the filling.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Base: In a separate skillet, heat oil and butter. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Build the Sauce: Stir in the diced large tomato and cook for 2 minutes. Add the three diced tomatoes, ground cumin, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
3. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the fresh parsley and coriander for a vibrant, fresh finish.

Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni

1. Stuff the Pasta Tubes: Fill each cannelloni tube with the prepared meat filling using a spoon or piping bag. Be careful not to overfill to prevent tearing.
2. Layer the Dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

1. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the dish.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a touch of elegance.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Stuffed Cannelloni embodies the essence of Italian cuisine—simple, high-quality ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. Its timelessness stems from its adaptability and widespread appeal. The savory meat filling, complemented by the aromatic tomato sauce and gooey cheese, makes it a dish that transcends generations.

The recipe’s structure is a canvas for creativity. Swap minced meat for spinach and ricotta for a vegetarian version or experiment with seafood for a coastal twist. The possibilities are endless, ensuring this recipe stays relevant in an ever-evolving culinary landscape.

Moreover, stuffed cannelloni is a dish that brings people together. Its family-style serving encourages sharing, making it perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or comforting weeknight dinners.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare stuffed cannelloni ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

3. Can I use other types of pasta?

While cannelloni is ideal, manicotti or large pasta shells can work as substitutes.

Tips for Perfect Cannelloni

1. Don’t Overstuff: Leave some space in the pasta tubes to prevent splitting.
2. Cover with Sauce: Ensure all pasta is covered with sauce to keep it moist while baking.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or basil elevate the flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze fully assembled and baked cannelloni for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cannelloni with Meat and Tomato Sauce is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that bridges the gap between tradition and creativity. Each component—whether it’s the hearty meat filling, the robust tomato sauce, or the melted cheese—comes together harmoniously, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe is a testament to the timeless nature of Italian cooking, where love and care transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The process of preparing cannelloni—stuffing the tubes, layering the dish, and watching it bake to perfection—is as satisfying as the final product.

What makes this dish truly special is its ability to adapt. It caters to various palates and dietary needs, proving its versatility time and time again. Whether you’re serving it for a festive gathering or a quiet family dinner, stuffed cannelloni always delivers, leaving everyone satisfied and eager for seconds.

So, the next time you’re looking for a meal that’s comforting, delicious, and endlessly customizable, let this recipe guide you. It’s more than a dinner—it’s a celebration of flavors, tradition, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Stuffed Cannelloni is not just a recipe to try; it’s one to treasure for years to come.