Welcome to a delicious and comforting meal that brings together rich Italian flavors with a hearty beef filling and cheesy goodness! In this recipe, we’re diving into making Spinach Beef Cannelloni (Manicotti), a perfect fusion of juicy beef, spinach, and a flavorful sauce that you’ll love. Whether you’re an Italian food enthusiast or someone looking to impress guests, this dish is bound to be a hit.
Introduction
Spinach Beef Cannelloni is a timeless Italian-American classic, known for its rich layers of beef, spinach, and flavorful sauce baked in a cozy casserole. The combination of tender pasta tubes, hearty beef, and fresh spinach makes it a comfort dish for both family dinners and special occasions. With origins tracing back to Italian cuisine, this dish merges the simplicity of pasta with the bold flavors of meat and vegetables, all enhanced by a creamy cheese topping. If you’re a fan of Italian baked pasta dishes like lasagna or manicotti, you’ll find this recipe a must-try!
Discover More Italian Classics
Ingredients for Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spinach Beef Cannelloni (Manicotti):
Cannelloni Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 celery rib, finely chopped (optional)
- 800g (28oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups (500ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ tsp each thyme, oregano, salt, pepper
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Spinach Beef Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 500g (1lb) lean ground beef
- 250g (8oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crumbled
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Cannelloni:
- 21-24 cannelloni tubes or 10 manicotti tubes
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
For a vegetarian twist, substitute the beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based alternative.
How to Make Spinach Beef Cannelloni – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Cannelloni Sauce
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add finely chopped carrots and celery (optional) and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, broth, and seasonings (thyme, oregano, salt, pepper). Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cover. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once done, blend the sauce using a stick blender until smooth. Set aside.
Step2: Cook the Spinach Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, stir in the spinach, crumbled bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Add 1 cup of the cannelloni sauce to the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step3: Assemble the Cannelloni
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Use a piping bag to fill the cannelloni tubes with the beef-spinach filling.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1¼ cups of the sauce, and arrange the filled cannelloni tubes on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the cannelloni and sprinkle with freshly grated mozzarella cheese.
Step4: Bake the Cannelloni
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Helpful Tips for Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Here are some tips to ensure your Spinach Beef Cannelloni comes out perfectly every time:
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili flakes to the sauce.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce as a substitute.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Want to take your Cannelloni to the next level? Here are a few techniques:
- Par-cook the cannelloni tubes: Boil the pasta tubes for 3-4 minutes before filling them to ensure even cooking.
- Use a piping bag: This makes it easier to fill the cannelloni tubes neatly and efficiently.
- Bake on the middle rack: For even heating, place the baking dish in the center of the oven.
Serving Suggestions for Spinach Beef Cannelloni
Pair your delicious Spinach Beef Cannelloni with these sides:
- A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or a rustic Italian loaf.
- A glass of Chianti or a light red wine to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Spinach Beef Cannelloni is not just flavorful, it’s packed with nutrients:
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage and Leftovers for Spinach Beef Cannelloni
To store your leftover cannelloni, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Spinach Beef Cannelloni
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I substitute the beef with another protein? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu can be used as substitutes.
3. How do I prevent the cannelloni from drying out? Make sure to use enough sauce to cover the cannelloni fully, as they absorb a lot of moisture during baking.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe? Yes! You can use gluten-free pasta tubes and ensure that the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Related Recipes for Spinach Beef Cannelloni Lovers:
- Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks – Perfect to serve with pasta dishes.
- Ricotta Cheesecake – A delicious dessert to end your Italian feast.
Conclusion
Spinach Beef Cannelloni (Manicotti) is a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees impressive results. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your feedback or personal variations with us!
Enjoy your cooking adventure and remember, the secret to a great cannelloni lies in the sauce and the love you put into making it!
Print
Spinach Beef Cannelloni Recipe – Hearty & Flavorful Pasta Dish
Description
Welcome to a delicious and comforting meal that brings together rich Italian flavors with a hearty beef filling and cheesy goodness! In this recipe, we’re diving into making Spinach Beef Cannelloni (Manicotti), a perfect fusion of juicy beef, spinach, and a flavorful sauce that you’ll love. Whether you’re an Italian food enthusiast or someone looking to impress guests, this dish is bound to be a hit.
Ingredients
Cannelloni Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 celery rib, finely chopped (optional)
- 800g (28oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups (500ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ tsp each thyme, oregano, salt, pepper
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Spinach Beef Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 500g (1lb) lean ground beef
- 250g (8oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 beef bouillon cube, crumbled
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Cannelloni:
- 21–24 cannelloni tubes or 10 manicotti tubes
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cannelloni Sauce
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add finely chopped carrots and celery (optional) and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, broth, and seasonings (thyme, oregano, salt, pepper). Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cover. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Once done, blend the sauce using a stick blender until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, stir in the spinach, crumbled bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper.
- Add 1 cup of the cannelloni sauce to the mixture and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Use a piping bag to fill the cannelloni tubes with the beef-spinach filling.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1¼ cups of the sauce, and arrange the filled cannelloni tubes on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the cannelloni and sprinkle with freshly grated mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Cannelloni
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add extra chili flakes to the sauce.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce as a substitute.
