Baked Beef Cannelloni: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Baked Beef Cannelloni is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your dining table. This comforting recipe features tender pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. The origins of cannelloni can be traced back to Southern Italy, where it was traditionally made as a way to use up leftover meats and sauces, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty meal that families could enjoy together.

People love Baked Beef Cannelloni not only for its incredible taste and texture but also for its convenience. It’s a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The combination of flavors—savory beef, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato—creates a symphony of deliciousness that is hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, Baked Beef Cannelloni is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. 2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. 3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. 4. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. 5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. 6. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese until well combined.

Preparing the Cannelloni

7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 8. While the oven is heating, prepare a baking dish by spreading a thin layer of the remaining crushed tomatoes on the bottom. This will prevent the cannelloni from sticking. 9. Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the beef and cheese mixture. Make sure to pack the filling in well, but be careful not to overfill and split the tubes. 10. Once all the cannelloni are filled, arrange them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Assembling the Dish

11. Pour the remaining crushed tomatoes over the filled cannelloni, ensuring they are well covered. This will keep them moist while baking. 12. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dish. 13. If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can sprinkle a little more dried oregano and basil on top.

Baking the Cannelloni

14. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese on top. This will help steam the cannelloni and cook them evenly. 15. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. 16. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. 17. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set a bit, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

18. To serve, use a spatula to carefully lift out the cannelloni and place them on plates. 19. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. 20. Pair your baked beef cannelloni with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade baked beef cannelloni! This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of savory beef, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese is sure to impress everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have on hand. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Baked Beef Cannelloni, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a comforting and delicious meal. The combination of tender pasta tubes filled with a savory beef mixture, smothered in rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey cheese, creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Baked Beef Cannelloni with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. You could also serve it alongside some garlic bread for that perfect Italian dining experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with variations by adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the beef filling, or even swapping out the beef for a mixture of ricotta and spinach for a vegetarian twist. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Baked Beef Cannelloni recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy baking! Print