Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a dish that will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine pasta tubes stuffed to the brim with savory beef and herbs, drenched in a creamy mozzarella sauce that hugs each piece like a warm blanket on a chilly night. pesto pasta with creamy sauce delicious pulled beef sandwich It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for those evenings when you want to impress without too much fuss. For more inspiration, check out this easy apple fritters recipe.
This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family dinners filled with laughter and stories shared over heaping plates of cheesy goodness. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Baked Beef Cannelloni takes center stage and leaves everyone asking for seconds—just don’t blame me if your guests start singing your praises louder than usual!
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The ease of preparation allows even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen. Experience an incredible flavor profile that balances richness with freshness. The stunning visual appeal makes it perfect for any dinner table setting. Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish fits all scenarios seamlessly. [/info_box]
Every time I serve this dish, my friends’ eyes light up as they dig into their plates, savoring every bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cannelloni Pasta: Look for quality pasta; fresh is ideal but dry can work too if you’re in a pinch.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still packing in the flavor.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling; sauté it until it’s translucent.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves; nothing beats that aromatic punch when they hit the pan.
- Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes; they add acidity and balance to the richness.
- Heavy Cream: This is essential for creating that luxurious mozzarella sauce we all crave.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and makes everything taste divine; be generous! turkey melt on sourdough.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top before baking gives an irresistible crust; it’s worth every calorie!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
Sautéing Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. Toss in minced garlic next until fragrant.
Cooking the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary; we want flavor without being swimming in grease.
Add Tomato Goodness: Stir in crushed tomatoes along with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Prepare the Sauce: In another pot, combine heavy cream and half of the mozzarella cheese over low heat until melted together. Add some salt for extra flavor; this will be your dreamy sauce.
Assemble Cannelloni: Stuff each cannelloni shell with the beef mixture using either a spoon or piping bag—this feels fancy! Spread some sauce at the bottom of your baking dish before placing stuffed shells side by side.
Bake & Enjoy: Pour remaining sauce over the filled cannelloni shells, sprinkle with parmesan cheese, then cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes covered; remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown!
Enjoy every mouthful of this Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce—it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike! creamy gnocchi mac and cheese.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a crowd-pleaser, bursting with flavor and comfort. The heavenly aroma while baking will make your neighbors jealous. Serve it warm for a delightful experience that brings everyone together at the dinner table. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef, then prepare your creamy sauce while cooking the cannelloni. This efficient method ensures everything is ready to go at once, resulting in delicious harmony.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate flavors; they brighten your dish beautifully. Make sure not to overfill cannelloni to prevent bursting during baking. Experiment with different cheeses to customize your creamy sauce—mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda all work great! [/info_box]
The first time I made Baked Beef Cannelloni was a culinary adventure gone slightly awry, but my family devoured it anyway! Their laughter over my “unique” cheese blend still echoes fondly.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
For more inspiration, check out this Taco Bell meat recipe recipe.
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as substitutes for ground beef.
What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Try ricotta for a creamier texture or provolone for additional flavor.
How do I ensure my cannelloni is cooked perfectly?
Bake until bubbly and golden brown on top, usually about 30 minutes at 375°F.
