Cannelloni with meat

Cannelloni with Meat and Bechamel Sauce: An Italian Indulgence at Home

It is said that food is an art, and preparing a delight like cannelloni with meat and bechamel sauce is certainly an artistic experience. This recipe not only brings together rich flavors and creamy textures but will also fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you prepare it for a special dinner or just to pamper your family, cannelloni are the perfect choice.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

*For Cannelloni:*
- 14 cannelloni tubes
- 400 g minced meat (a mix of pork and beef for richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 5-6 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 25 g butter
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 g grated cheese
- 50 g grated parmesan

*For Bechamel Sauce:*
- 1 L milk
- 50 g butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Grated nutmeg, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Bechamel Sauce: Start by preparing the bechamel sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk quickly until the mixture becomes a smooth paste, known as a roux. This is the base of your sauce. Be careful not to brown it!

2. Adding the Milk: Begin to pour in the milk gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. It is essential to be patient at this stage. Continue to stir until the sauce begins to thicken. It should have a creamy consistency.

3. Seasoning the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and add salt, pepper, and a hint of grated nutmeg for a subtle flavor. Set it aside to cool slightly.

4. Preparing the Meat Filling: In a high-sided pan (or wok), add the olive oil and butter. Sauté the onion and garlic until golden and fragrant. Add the minced meat and stir well, allowing it to brown slightly.

5. Adding the Tomato Paste: Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato paste and stir to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper, then add half of the grated parmesan and 4 tablespoons of the bechamel sauce. Mix until everything is well combined.

6. Filling the Cannelloni Tubes: Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill the cannelloni tubes with the meat mixture. Make sure to fill them well but do not overstuff, or they will break.

7. Assembling in the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of bechamel sauce on the bottom. Arrange the filled tubes neatly, then cover them with the remaining bechamel sauce.

8. Topping with Tomatoes and Cheese: Place the tomato slices on top and sprinkle the remaining cheese and parmesan for a golden, crispy crust.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cannelloni for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Helpful Tips:
- Make sure the bechamel sauce is well mixed to avoid lumps. If you happen to have issues, you can use a blender to make it smoother.
- You can add chopped vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the meat filling for extra nutrients and an interesting texture.
- If you enjoy stronger flavors, you can add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the filling.

Nutritional Information: This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and cheese, while the bechamel sauce adds a creamy note. Each serving contains approximately 600 calories, but the nutritional value may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes! You can use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
2. Can cannelloni be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Bake it before serving.
3. Can I replace the bechamel sauce with something else?
Yes, you can use a tomato sauce or a cream sauce for a lighter version.

This cannelloni recipe with meat and bechamel sauce is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth to any home. Enjoy every bite and let your imagination soar with your personal variations! Bon appétit!