Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
Imagine a dish that combines the richness of beef, the comfort of pasta, and the creaminess of mozzarella all baked to perfection. Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions. The tender beef filling combined with the savory mozzarella sauce creates a harmonious symphony of taste that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Cannelloni:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 cannelloni tubes
For the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce:
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredient Substitutions:
– Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
– You can add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the beef filling for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Add oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Fill each cannelloni tube with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
4. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it simmers. Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
5. Pour the creamy mozzarella sauce over the cannelloni in the baking dish.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Expert Tips for Success:
– Make sure to cook the beef filling thoroughly before filling the cannelloni tubes to ensure even cooking.
– Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
You can customize this dish to suit your preferences by:
– Adding diced bell peppers or carrots to the beef filling for added crunch.
– Using different types of cheese like cheddar or Gruyere for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve the Baked Beef Cannelloni with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a glass of red wine. The rich flavors of the dish pair beautifully with the acidity of the salad and the fruitiness of the wine.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the cannelloni and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! The Baked Beef Cannelloni freezes well and makes for a convenient and delicious meal on busy days. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a comforting and satisfying way. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and experience the joy of homemade Italian cuisine right in your own kitchen!
Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
A culinary masterpiece combining the richness of beef, the comfort of pasta, and the creaminess of mozzarella, all baked to perfection. This dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
-
In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned. Add oregano, salt, and pepper.
-
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Fill each cannelloni tube with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
-
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it simmers. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
-
Pour the creamy mozzarella sauce over the cannelloni in the baking dish.
-
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
