Sharing a classic Italian recipe, cannelloni can be prepared with various fillings, ranging from traditional options like corn, vegetables, or ricotta. However, meat-filled cannelloni are a true delight, and while they take a bit of time to prepare, the final result is well worth the effort. A complete dish, meat cannelloni with cheese and tomato sauce, is our suggestion today to surprise your family on Sunday, the traditional day for homemade pasta.
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Boil the cannelloni sheets in salted water until al dente.
Carefully remove them from the water using a slotted spoon and place the cooked pasta on a cloth lightly sprinkled with grated cheese. Set aside.
Heat the sunflower oil in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion and garlic over low heat until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the ground beef, celery, and carrots, stirring to ensure even cooking.
Cook the meat for 5 minutes, then add the tomato purée and hot beef broth. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10 minutes over low heat.
Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and stir until combined. Gradually add the hot milk, stirring constantly.
Dissolve the cornstarch in a little water and add it to the mixture, continuing to cook over low heat while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finally, add both types of cheese and cook for one more minute. Season with nutmeg, remove from heat, and set aside.
Place a portion of the meat filling on each cannelloni sheet and roll them up.
In a baking dish greased with oil, spread a layer of tomato sauce. Arrange the rolled cannelloni on top, then cover them with the cheese sauce and the remaining tomato sauce.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Serve the meat cannelloni with cheese and tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Ensure the cannelloni sheets are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
Use fresh basil for garnish to enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
Prepare the meat filling and cheese sauce ahead of time to save time during assembly.
Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?
Yes, store-bought tomato sauce works well, but homemade sauce will add a richer flavor.
Can I substitute the cheeses?
You can use other melting cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but Edam and Parmesan provide the best flavor combination.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cannelloni and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.
How do I prevent the cannelloni from sticking together?
Place the cooked pasta sheets on a cloth sprinkled with grated cheese to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cannelloni in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
