Ingredients
Scale
To prepare the Creamy Spinach and Beef Cannelloni, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cannelloni:
- 12 cannelloni tubes or 8 lasagna sheets
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Creating this dish involves a series of simple steps. Here’s how to prepare the Creamy Spinach and Beef Cannelloni:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped spinach to the skillet. Sauté until the spinach wilts.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef and spinach mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute, until it forms a smooth paste.
- Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using lasagna sheets, boil them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Spread a thin layer of the cream sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each cannelloni tube with the beef and spinach mixture. If using lasagna sheets, place filling along one edge and roll up.
- Arrange filled cannelloni in the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Cannelloni
- Pour the remaining cream sauce over the cannelloni, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the cannelloni cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, heat marinara sauce and serve it alongside or drizzled over the cannelloni.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 35g