ADVERTISEMENT
Stuffed Cannelloni with Meat and Tomato Sauce is a quintessential comfort food that combines the rich flavors of seasoned minced meat, a robust tomato sauce, and melted cheese, all encased in tender pasta tubes. This dish, steeped in Italian culinary tradition, is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or simply when you want to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal.
Cannelloni, originating from Italy, translates to “large reeds,” referring to the tubular pasta shape designed to hold delicious fillings. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. While the classic recipe uses minced meat, the filling can easily be adapted to include vegetables, seafood, or ricotta cheese for those with different dietary preferences.
This recipe highlights a harmonious balance of textures and flavors—soft pasta paired with a savory meat filling and finished with a luscious tomato sauce. The melted cheese on top adds the perfect golden crust, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a timeless dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Meat Filling:
600g (1.3 lbs) minced meat (beef, pork, or a blend)
2 large eggs
1 onion, finely chopped
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Tomato Sauce:
1 large tomato, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tomatoes, diced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian herbs (dried basil, oregano, thyme, or a pre-mixed blend)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
For Assembling:
150–200g cannelloni pasta tubes (about 12–15 tubes)
200g (1.5 cups) shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil and a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden.
Cook the Meat: Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh dill. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Incorporate the Eggs: Once the mixture has cooled, add the eggs and mix thoroughly to bind the filling.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
Sauté the Base: In a separate skillet, heat oil and butter. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Build the Sauce: Stir in the diced large tomato and cook for 2 minutes. Add the three diced tomatoes, ground cumin, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the fresh parsley and coriander for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
Stuff the Pasta Tubes: Fill each cannelloni tube with the prepared meat filling using a spoon or piping bag. Be careful not to overfill to prevent tearing.
Layer the Dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes on top in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the dish.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a touch of elegance.
ADVERTISEMENT
