Introduction

Cannelloni, a beloved Italian dish, offers a delightful combination of stuffed pasta and rich saucy flavors. This recipe features a hearty filling of spinach and beef, enveloped in tender pasta tubes and topped with a creamy sauce. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Cannelloni or Manicotti – 12 pieces
– Ground beef – 500 grams
– Fresh spinach – 250 grams
– Ricotta cheese – 250 grams
– Mozzarella cheese – 200 grams, shredded
– Parmesan cheese – 50 grams, grated
– Onion – 1 medium, diced
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
– Egg – 1 large, beaten
– Salt – to taste
– Pepper – to taste
– Marinara sauce – 2 cups

Prep Time

The preparation for this delicious cannelloni dish takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time required to cook the beef, prepare the spinach, and mix the filling.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time is around 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Therefore, the total time for the entire dish from start to finish is about 50 minutes. This recipe yields 4 servings, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.

Prepare the Cannelloni Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Fill the Cannelloni

Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the spinach and ricotta mixture. Take care not to overfill, as the filling might spill out during cooking.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent the cannelloni from sticking. Arrange the filled cannelloni in a single layer in the dish and pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all pasta is covered.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle additional grated cheese over the top of the cannelloni. This will create a delicious cheesy crust once baked.

Bake the Cannelloni

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Let It Rest

Once removed from the oven, let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.

Notes

Substitution Options

You can use any leafy greens instead of spinach, such as kale or Swiss chard, depending on your preference.

Make-Ahead Instructions

The cannelloni can be assembled a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add some extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad or crusty garlic bread to complement the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also add a burst of flavor.

Storage Guidelines

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Filling

Creating a delicious beef and spinach filling involves browning the ground beef and then adding finely chopped spinach. Cooking the spinach until it’s wilted ensures you maximize flavor and keep moisture levels perfect for the cannelloni.

Stuffing the Cannelloni

Use a piping bag or a spoon to fill the cannelloni tubes with the prepared beef and spinach mixture. Be careful to fill them adequately to avoid any empty spaces, which could lead to uneven cooking.

Baking with Sauce

When arranging the filled cannelloni in a baking dish, ensure they are covered with sauce to prevent them from drying out in the oven. Baking them covered initially allows the pasta to cook through while keeping the filling juicy.

Making Bechamel Sauce

A classic bechamel sauce serves as a creamy topping for the cannelloni. Make sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.

FAQ

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Ensure you wash and cook it down to reduce the volume before mixing it into the filling.

Can I prepare the cannelloni ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the cannelloni and store them in the refrigerator for a day before baking. Just ensure they are well covered to prevent drying out.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative, or for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a combination of mushrooms and tofu.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze cooked cannelloni?

Yes, cooked cannelloni can be frozen. Ensure they are well wrapped in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and consume within three months.

Conclusion

This Spinach Beef Cannelloni is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that promise to be a hit at your dinner table. The creamy ricotta and seasoned beef blend perfectly with the spinach, all enveloped in pasta and topped with marinara sauce and cheese. This dish is not only satisfying but also packs a nutritional punch with the inclusion of spinach.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

For a meatless alternative, replace the beef with a mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and additional spinach for a rich and satisfying filling.

Seafood Cannelloni

Try using a combination of crab meat and shrimp mixed with cream cheese for a unique seafood twist on traditional cannelloni.

Cheesy Chicken Cannelloni

Substitute beef with shredded cooked chicken and mix with a blend of your favorite cheeses for a creamy, cheesy delight.

Mushroom and Spinach Cannelloni

Utilize a blend of sautéed mushrooms and spinach with cheese for a hearty vegetarian option that brings earthy flavors to the dish.

Buffalo Chicken Cannelloni

Incorporate cooked buffalo chicken into the filling for a spicy, bite-sized version of cannelloni perfect for those who love a kick.

Lasagna-Style Cannelloni

Layer fillings with sheets of lasagna instead of traditional cannelloni tubes for a unique take on two Italian classics.

Mexican-Inspired Cannelloni

Spice things up by using seasoned ground beef or turkey mixed with black beans and cheese, then top with salsa for an exciting fusion dish.