Introduction
Cannellonis are a delightful Italian dish that is both comforting and satisfying. This recipe combines the ease of a quick preparation time with the rich flavors of meat sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just five ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of preparation, you can have a delectable meal on the table in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Cannelloni tubes – 250g
– Ground beef – 300g
– Tomato sauce – 400ml
– Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
– Grated cheese – 100g
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Meat Filling
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices.
Add the Tomato Sauce
Once the meat is browned, pour in a jar of ready-made tomato sauce. Stir well to combine and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Preheat the Oven
While the meat sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the Cannelloni Tubes
Take the cannelloni tubes and carefully stuff each one with the prepared meat filling. You can use a small spoon or a piping bag for a more efficient filling process.
Assemble the Dish
Spread a thin layer of the remaining tomato sauce on the bottom of an oven-safe dish. Place the stuffed cannelloni in the dish in a single layer, then cover them with the rest of the sauce. Sprinkle grated cheese on top for a delicious crust.
Bake the Cannelloni
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden cheese topping.
Let it Rest
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the cannelloni firm up and makes for easier serving.
Notes
Meat Options
You can substitute the minced beef with minced pork, chicken, or turkey, depending on your preference.
Cheese Varieties
Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella, parmesan, or ricotta to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Freezing Instructions
These cannelloni can be assembled ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just increase the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Vegetarian Alternative
For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini mixed with ricotta cheese.
Cook techniques
Baking Cannelloni
Baking cannelloni helps to meld the flavors together while creating a bubbly, golden top. Ensure that the oven is preheated to the required temperature before placing the dish inside for even cooking.
Preparing the Filling
The filling can be made from a combination of cooked meat, cheese, and spices. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that each cannelloni is flavorful.
Cooking Sauce
Preparing the sauce separately allows for better control over seasoning and thickness. A quick sauce can be made using canned tomatoes and sautéed onions or garlic for added flavor.
Assembling Cannelloni
Stuffing cannelloni can be done using a spoon or piping bag for ease. Fill each tube generously, being careful not to overfill to prevent spillage during cooking.
Layering for Baking
Layering the cannelloni in the baking dish with sauce between the layers prevents them from drying out and adds moisture. A final layer of cheese on top caramelizes during baking.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought cannelloni?
Yes, store-bought cannelloni is a convenient option and can be used directly without pre-cooking.
What alternatives can I use for the filling?
You can use ricotta cheese, spinach, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the meat with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Can I prepare cannelloni in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the cannelloni and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before baking.
How do I know when the cannelloni is cooked?
The cannelloni is cooked when the sauce is bubbling, and the pasta is tender. You can check by inserting a fork to see if the pasta is soft.
Conclusion
The Cannellonis with express meat sauce is a delightful and easy dish that brings together the rich flavors of a quick meat sauce and the comforting texture of pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights, it can be prepared in just a short time, making it a perfect choice for family dinners. With its tantalizing taste and satisfying nature, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Cannellonis
Try stuffing the cannellonis with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs for a delicious vegetarian option.
Seafood Cannellonis
Fill the pasta tubes with a blend of shrimp and crab meat, mixed with cream and garlic for a luxurious seafood twist.
Chicken Alfredo Cannellonis
Substitute the meat sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce and shredded grilled chicken for a rich and savory variation.
Spicy Chorizo Cannellonis
Incorporate some spicy chorizo into the meat sauce for a kick of flavor that brings a new level of heat to the dish.
Pesto Cannellonis
Use a pesto sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce to give the cannellonis a fresh and aromatic twist.
Mushroom and Cheese Cannellonis
Combine sautéed mushrooms with a béchamel sauce and cheese for a comforting, earthy flavor profile.