This classic Italian dish features tender pasta tubes generously filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. The filling is bound with rich Parmesan cheese and eggs, creating a robust and satisfying bite. Each cannelloni is nestled in a baking dish layered with tangy tomato sauce and smothered in a velvety, homemade béchamel sauce. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and flavorsâÂÂthe crisp edges of the baked pasta, the soft creaminess of the white sauce, and the savory depth of the meat filling. It is a comforting, family-style meal perfect for Sunday dinners or holiday gatherings. While it requires a bit of assembly, the step-by-step process is straightforward, yielding a restaurant-quality centerpiece that feels both indulgent and homey. Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
Cannelloni
Description
This classic Italian dish features tender pasta tubes generously filled with a hearty mixture of ground beef, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. The filling is bound with rich Parmesan cheese and eggs, creating a robust and satisfying bite. Each cannelloni is nestled in a baking dish layered with tangy tomato sauce and smothered in a velvety, homemade b&# 195;©chamel sauce. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and flavorsâÂÂthe crisp edges of the baked pasta, the soft creaminess of the white sauce, and the savory depth of the meat filling. It is a comforting, family-style meal perfect for Sunday dinners or holiday gatherings. While it requires a bit of assembly, the step-by-step process is straightforward, yielding a restaurant-quality centerpiece that feels both indulgent and homey. Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375ðF (190ðC). Cook cannelloni shells according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
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In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese with 1 cup of the tomato sauce. Spread this mixture evenly into the bottom of a lightly greased 13x9-inch baking dish.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
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Add thawed and drained spinach to the skillet. Sauté for 3 minutes. Stir in 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, milk, beaten eggs, and dried oregano.
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Stuff each cooked cannelloni shell with the beef and spinach mixture. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer on top of the tomato sauce in the baking dish.
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Make the cream sauce: Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in half-and-half. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly. Season with white pepper.
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Pour the cream sauce evenly over the cannelloni. Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
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Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops are lightly golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 344.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.6g31%
- Saturated Fat 8.2g41%
- Cholesterol 95.1mg32%
- Sodium 556.7mg24%
- Total Carbohydrate 6.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 3.3g
- Protein 33.3g67%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
