Dive deep into the heart of Italian cuisine with this rich beef cannelloni recipe with white sauce. Let’s walk through this gastronomic adventure that is sure to please every palate and make this Italian favorite your own.
Beef Cannelloni Recipe With White Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup spinach chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 2 cups white sauce (béchamel)
White Sauce (Béchamel)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned.
- Season with salt and pepper. Add spinach if desired and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- For the béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan. Add flour, whisking continuously. Gradually pour in milk, whisking until smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Cook until thickened.
- Stuff each cannelloni tube with the beef mixture.
- Spread a layer of white sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place filled cannelloni over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining béchamel over the cannelloni. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Pasta Choice: Ensure the cannelloni tubes you pick are of good quality. You want them to hold their shape and not tear easily when stuffing. Some people also use lasagna sheets, rolling them around the filling to create cannelloni.
- Béchamel Sauce: The consistency of your white sauce is crucial. If it's too thick, it can overpower the dish, while if too thin, it won't provide the needed creaminess. It should coat the back of a spoon well.
- Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially for the beef mixture and the béchamel.
- Alternate Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the beef filling. Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a bit of spicy sausage for added depth.
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan is a classic choice, other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina can add a different flavor profile and meltiness.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the cannelloni, it's best to do so before baking. Once ready to enjoy, you can bake straight from frozen, adding a bit more time to ensure it's heated through.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, it's best to reheat them in the oven to retain the pasta's texture. Microwaving can make the pasta a bit soggy.
- Serving Suggestion: A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) just before serving can elevate the dish even further.
- Side Pairings: Since the cannelloni is rich and creamy, consider pairing it with a tangy or citrusy salad to balance the flavors. Remember, cooking is both an art and a science. While the recipe provides a structure, your personal touches and intuition will perfect the dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Why Make Beef Cannelloni Recipe With White Sauce?
Beef cannelloni stands as a testament to Italian culinary expertise, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The white sauce adds a creamy, luxurious touch that elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality level.
How Difficult Is It To Make Beef Cannelloni Recipe With White Sauce?
While it may seem daunting, with a bit of patience, even novice cooks can master this dish. The key is to ensure the beef mixture is flavorful, and the white sauce is smooth and lump-free.
How Does Beef Cannelloni Recipe With White Sauce Taste?
Every bite of the beef cannelloni offers a delightful contrast—the soft pasta, the rich and savory beef filling, and the creamy, velvety white sauce. It’s a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I prepare the beef cannelloni in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
What can I serve alongside the beef cannelloni?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables pairs well with this rich dish.
Can I freeze the beef cannelloni?
Absolutely. Ensure it’s wrapped well, and it can be frozen for up to a month.
Can I use other meats instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats can be used.
Can I add other seasonings to the white sauce?
Of course! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or even some cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Beef Cannelloni Recipe With White Sauce: Make It Happen!
This exciting beef cannelloni recipe with white sauce is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. Whether it’s a regular dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Buon appetito!
