Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

Introduction

Welcome to a world of comfort, flavor, and joy! Today, we are diving into the delicious realm of Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender pasta tubes filled with savory beef, all smothered in a rich, creamy mozzarella sauce. Sounds tempting, right? Well, it gets better!

Whether it’s a chilly evening or simply a day when you need some comfort food, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s easy to make, and your family will love you for it! Let’s not waste any more time; let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce:

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to cooking. Here’s a breakdown:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your cannelloni is baked to perfection!

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Then, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning!

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Once the beef is cooked, remove it from heat. In a bowl, mix the cooked beef with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. This filling is going to be delicious!

Step 4: Fill the Cannelloni

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cannelloni tube with the beef and cheese mixture. It’s messy but oh so worth it!

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the filled cannelloni tubes on top, side by side. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the cannelloni, ensuring they are well covered.

Step 6: Add the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

Now comes the best part! Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create a glorious cheesy crust!

Step 7: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Nutritional Information

Knowing what you eat is important. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

Healthier Alternatives

Want to make it a bit healthier? Here are some alternatives:

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Opt for whole wheat cannelloni for extra fiber.
• Swap out regular cheese for reduced-fat cheese.
• Add spinach or zucchini to the filling for more veggies.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve with a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with garlic bread for added deliciousness.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the beef can make it tough.
• Not filling the cannelloni enough results in bland bites.
• Forgetting to cover the dish initially can dry out the pasta.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your Baked Beef Cannelloni:

• Let it cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is simple, fun, and oh-so-rewarding. Not only do you get to enjoy a comforting meal, but you also get to impress your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any tubular pasta shape, like manicotti or even shells.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes very well! Just make sure to cover it tightly.

Can I substitute the beef with a vegetarian option?

Definitely! Use a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and lentils for a tasty vegetarian filling.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! A delightful recipe for Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce that checks all the boxes for comfort food. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!