Introduction
Mushroom Cannelloni is a delightful Italian dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe features pasta tubes filled with a savory mushroom mixture, enveloped in a smooth béchamel sauce and topped with cheese. It’s an excellent choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, showcasing the wonderful umami flavors of mushrooms in a deliciously satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cannelloni Pasta – 12 tubes
Mushrooms – 400g, chopped
Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Spinach – 200g, fresh or frozen
Ricotta Cheese – 250g
Parmesan Cheese – 50g, grated
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black Pepper – to taste
Nutmeg – a pinch
Tomato Sauce – 500g
Béchamel Sauce – 400ml
Mozzarella Cheese – 150g, grated
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a large saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Stir in chopped canned tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom Filling
In a frying pan, heat butter and sauté the chopped mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Once cooled, mix with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and a handful of fresh herbs like parsley.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill the uncooked cannelloni tubes with the mushroom and ricotta filling. Place the filled tubes in a baking dish.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Cannelloni
Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the filled cannelloni, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle more grated Parmesan on top for added flavor and a nice crust.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Notes
Note 1: Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique flavor in the filling.
Note 2: Mushroom Choices
You can use a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, or button mushrooms in the filling for different tastes and textures.
Note 3: Leftover Sauce
Any leftover sauce can be stored in the fridge for a few days and used in other dishes, such as pasta or as a pizza base.
Note 4: Making Ahead
These cannelloni can be assembled and kept in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just adjust the baking time as needed.
Cook techniques
Roasting mushrooms
Roasting mushrooms enhances their flavor and brings out a deeper, more concentrated taste. It’s important to toss them with oil and seasoning before placing them in a hot oven for optimal results.
Making a creamy filling
Creating a creamy filling requires blending cooked mushrooms with ricotta cheese and other ingredients until smooth. This step ensures a rich texture that complements the pasta.
Precooking pasta
Precooking cannelloni for a few minutes will make it easier to stuff and helps it cook evenly. This technique prevents the pasta from becoming too dry during baking.
Layering flavors
Layering flavors when constructing the dish allows for a more complex taste. Start with a base of sauce, followed by filling, and continue layering for a well-rounded profile.
Baking with foil
Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking phase helps retain moisture, ensuring the cannelloni cooks thoroughly and remains tender before finishing without the cover for a crisp top.
Garnishing
Garnishing the dish with fresh herbs or grated cheese just before serving enhances both the presentation and flavor, making the dish visually appealing and adding a fresh taste.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mushrooms for the filling?
Yes, you can use a variety of mushrooms such as portobello, shiitake, or button mushrooms to create different flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make the cannelloni in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cannelloni ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can use cottage cheese or even vegan cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, ensure the pasta is well coated in oil, and avoid overcrowding the cooking pot or baking dish.
What should I serve with mushroom cannelloni?
Serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread can complement the dish beautifully, balancing the flavors.
Conclusion
Mushroom cannelloni is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of mushrooms with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe showcases the versatility of mushrooms and provides a hearty vegetarian option that’s sure to impress. Serving it with a simple salad or crusty bread can elevate the meal further, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
This classic Italian dish combines fresh spinach with creamy ricotta cheese, making for a delicious filling that complements the cannelloni perfectly.
Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta
For a seasonal twist, consider using roasted butternut squash and fresh sage as a filling. The sweetness of the squash balances wonderfully with the pasta.
Cheese and Tomato Lasagna
Try substituting the mushroom filling with a blend of cheeses and a zesty tomato sauce for a comforting lasagna that’s easy to prepare.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use similar mushroom and herb fillings in bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious dish. Bake until the peppers are tender and serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Mushroom Risotto
If you’re in the mood for something creamy, a mushroom risotto makes a fantastic alternative that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms in a different way.