Cannelloni with meat

Delicious Cannelloni with Meat Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

If you're looking for a savory and easy-to-make recipe, cannelloni with meat is the perfect choice. This dish is a delicious combination of pasta filled with meat and tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese, that will delight the whole family. Let's explore together how to prepare this classic Italian dish, step by step!

A Brief History of Cannelloni

The origins of cannelloni are deeply rooted in Italian culinary tradition, with roots that stretch back to the 18th century. These stuffed pastas are often considered a symbol of hospitality and comfort, served at festive meals and family gatherings. With a pleasant texture and intense flavor, cannelloni quickly became a favorite around the world.

Ingredients

- 1 box of cannelloni (about 250 g)
- 500 g minced meat (pork and beef mix)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 400 ml tomato sauce (or more, to taste)
- 100 ml white or red wine (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 g grated parmesan cheese (or mozzarella cheese, depending on preference)
- Olive oil for sautéing

Preparation

1. Boiling the cannelloni: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the pasta. Follow the instructions on the cannelloni box to boil them, usually between 8 and 10 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them; they will bake in the oven. After boiling, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing the filling: In a deep skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced meat and mix well, cooking until it loses its pink color. This step is essential for a tasty filling.

3. Adding the sauce: Once the meat is cooked, pour in the tomato sauce and wine, mixing well to combine the ingredients. Add oregano, thyme, and paprika, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Filling the cannelloni: Use a spoon or a large piping bag to fill each tube of cannelloni with the meat mixture. Carefully place them in a greased baking dish with a bit of oil or tomato sauce to prevent sticking. This step can be a bit messy, but it's part of the fun!

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. After filling all the cannelloni, pour the remaining tomato sauce on top, ensuring each tube is well covered. Sprinkle the grated parmesan on top for a golden, crispy crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (for the first part of baking) and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

6. Serving: When the cannelloni are ready, let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for added color and flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Practical Tips

- Filling variations: You can experiment with different fillings by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, or even ricotta cheese for a creamier option.
- Alternative sauces: Instead of tomato sauce, you can try a béchamel sauce for a creamier texture or a pesto sauce for a flavorful twist.
- Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices, such as garlic or chili, to customize the recipe to your taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish contains protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the pasta, and vitamins from the tomato sauce, making it a balanced option for lunch or dinner. Additionally, cheese adds essential calcium for bone health. Depending on the chosen ingredients, you can adapt the recipe to suit your nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, you can use whole wheat cannelloni for a healthier option.
2. How can I make the recipe easier to prepare? You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Then, fill the cannelloni before baking.
3. What drink pairs best? A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors of the recipe perfectly.

Conclusion

Cannelloni with meat is a comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy cooking techniques, you can impress anyone with this delicious recipe. So put on your apron and enjoy cooking!