Here’s a detailed and hearty recipe for Cannelloni with Minced Meat and Tomato Sauce, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This dish is packed with flavor and easy to prepare, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
Classic Cannelloni with Minced Meat and Tomato Sauce
Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450 g) minced meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 g) ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce or passata
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (or fresh leaves, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 12-15 cannelloni tubes (or lasagna sheets if rolling by hand)
- 1 cup (240 ml) béchamel sauce (optional but recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese