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Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
About This Recipe
Cannelloni is a classic Italian pasta dish traditionally stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables and baked with sauce. This version focuses on a deeply seasoned beef filling combined with a creamy mozzarella sauce that melts beautifully in the oven. The result is a balanced dish where the richness of the meat meets the mild, stretchy comfort of melted cheese.
This recipe is baked slowly to allow the pasta to soften while absorbing the flavors of the filling and sauce. The final texture is tender, creamy, and deeply satisfying without being overly heavy.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cannelloni
This dish stands out because it combines simple ingredients with a slow-baked method that enhances flavor. It can be prepared ahead of time, feeds several people generously, and looks impressive when served straight from the oven. The creamy mozzarella sauce adds a smooth finish that appeals to both adults and children.
It is also versatile. You can adjust the seasoning, add herbs, or mix cheeses depending on what you have available, without compromising the structure of the dish.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 400 g crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 500 ml whole milk, warm
- 150 g mozzarella cheese, grated
- 50 g grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white or black pepper
For Assembly
- 12 to 14 dried cannelloni tubes
- Extra mozzarella for topping
- Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and basil. Stir well so the spices are evenly distributed.
Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until thick and rich. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before filling the cannelloni.
Make the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute to form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Reduce the heat and add the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Assemble the Cannelloni
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or oil. Spread a thin layer of mozzarella sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
Fill each cannelloni tube with the beef mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the filled tubes side by side in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the remaining mozzarella sauce evenly over the cannelloni, making sure all pasta tubes are well covered. Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for a golden finish.
Bake the Dish
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let the cannelloni rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Beef Cannelloni is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A light side dish balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
This dish is filling on its own, making it ideal for dinner gatherings or weekend meals.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover cannelloni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 170°C until heated through.
This dish can also be frozen before or after baking. When freezing, wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Tips
Make sure the cannelloni tubes are completely covered with sauce before baking to ensure they soften properly. Using warm milk for the sauce helps create a smoother texture. Letting the dish rest after baking improves the final structure and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked Beef Cannelloni with Creamy Mozzarella Sauce is a timeless comfort dish that combines rich flavors, tender pasta, and a smooth, cheesy finish. It is simple enough for home cooks yet elegant enough to serve to guests. With its hearty filling and creamy topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.