Spinach and Beef Cannelloni

Spinach and Beef Cannelloni

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The rich combination of savory beef, spinach, and creamy ricotta, all stuffed inside perfectly cooked cannelloni tubes, makes this dish a family favorite. Topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and bubbly melted cheese, it’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that warms you up from the inside out.

The Spinach and Beef Cannelloni are both a comforting and indulgent dinner that’s great for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s a dish that offers delicious flavor in every bite and is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. The tomato sauce adds a fresh zing, balancing the richness of the cheese and meat, while the spinach provides an extra layer of nutrition. Perfect for pasta lovers who crave a dish full of cheesy goodness.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 12 cannelloni tubes

  • 250g (9oz) ground beef

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups spinach, chopped

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 1 can (400g/14oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook the cannelloni tubes according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.

  4. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

  5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

  6. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Add the beef and spinach mixture to the cheese blend. Stir to combine.

  7. Stuff the cooked cannelloni tubes with the beef, spinach, and cheese mixture.

  8. In a separate pan, heat the crushed tomatoes over low heat. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  9. Spread half of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni in the dish and top with the remaining sauce.

  10. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origins of Cannelloni

Cannelloni, meaning “big tube” in Italian, is a type of pasta that is traditionally stuffed with a variety of fillings. Originating from Southern Italy, cannelloni was initially made with fresh pasta, though today it is commonly found pre-packaged in many supermarkets. This versatile dish can be filled with everything from ricotta and spinach to beef, chicken, and even seafood. In the case of Spinach and Beef Cannelloni, the combination of beef and spinach is a classic pairing that combines protein and greens in a way that’s both hearty and healthy. While it’s a traditional Italian dish, its popularity has spread far beyond Italy, with people around the world adapting it to suit their tastes and dietary preferences.

Why Spinach and Beef Cannelloni Is Perfect for Family Dinners

Family dinners are an opportunity to come together, enjoy good food, and bond over a meal that everyone can enjoy. Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is the perfect dish for such an occasion. This recipe is a great choice for feeding a large group, as it is easy to prepare in advance and can be baked in a single large dish, minimizing the need for multiple pots and pans. The flavors are comforting yet sophisticated, making it a dish that will please both adults and children alike. The combination of pasta, beef, spinach, and cheese ensures that the dish is both filling and nutritious, providing a complete meal in one dish. Plus, the cheesy, saucy layers are always a hit with kids, while adults can appreciate the depth of flavor and the balance of ingredients.

The Appeal of Spinach and Beef Cannelloni

What makes Spinach and Beef Cannelloni so special is its ability to blend simple ingredients into a comforting, flavorful dish. The beef filling is rich and savory, while the spinach adds a touch of freshness and a slight earthiness to balance the richness. The cheeses contribute a creamy texture that ties everything together, and the tomato sauce adds a tangy sweetness that rounds out the flavors. This dish offers a perfect balance between meaty and cheesy, making it a satisfying choice for any meal. The best part is that it’s highly customizable. If you prefer a lighter filling, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Tips for Customizing Your Cannelloni

One of the reasons why Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is so popular is that it’s highly adaptable. While the classic combination of beef, spinach, and cheese is a winner, you can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, consider swapping the beef for a leaner protein, such as ground turkey or chicken. If you’re following a vegetarian diet, you can omit the beef altogether and use extra spinach, ricotta, and mushrooms for a satisfying meat-free filling. To make the dish even more flavorful, try adding garlic, onions, or fresh herbs such as basil, thyme, or oregano to the filling.

Another great way to customize this dish is by changing the type of cheese you use. While mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are the traditional choices, you can substitute them with other types of cheese depending on your taste. For example, goat cheese adds a tangy flavor, while provolone or fontina can bring a more robust, savory taste. You can also make the dish spicier by adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the sauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free cannelloni tubes.

Serving Suggestions for Spinach and Beef Cannelloni

Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is a rich and hearty dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a well-rounded meal, serve it with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the pasta. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette works particularly well, as it adds a fresh, peppery contrast to the creamy cannelloni. If you’re craving more vegetables, you can also serve the dish with roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or carrots.

For those who love bread, a side of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is an excellent choice. The bread can be used to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. If you’re looking to elevate the meal further, consider serving it with a glass of Italian red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, which pairs beautifully with the meaty and cheesy flavors of the cannelloni.

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is not only a fantastic dish for family dinners but also for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a meal for a holiday gathering, or simply making a delicious weekend dinner, this dish will always impress. Its classic Italian flavors and satisfying nature make it a timeless recipe that can be enjoyed by all ages. The best part is that it’s a make-ahead dish, so you can prepare it earlier in the day and simply pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat, making it an ideal option for busy evenings or entertaining guests.

Conclusion

Spinach and Beef Cannelloni is a quintessential comfort food that brings together the best of Italian cuisine: savory beef, fresh spinach, rich cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a dish that is not only delicious but also highly customizable to suit a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large family or hosting a special occasion, this dish will always be a crowd-pleaser. Its combination of rich, hearty flavors and its ability to be adapted to suit different dietary needs make it a versatile and timeless recipe that will continue to be loved for years to come. So, the next time you’re looking for a satisfying, comforting meal, look no further than Spinach and Beef Cannelloni—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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