Homemade Cheese Cannelloni

Recipe Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. Cook the cannelloni tubes according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Spoon the cheese mixture into a piping bag or a plastic zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
5. Carefully pipe the cheese mixture into each cannelloni tube until they are filled.
6. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
9. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes in a single layer in the baking dish.
10. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cannelloni, making sure to cover them evenly.
11. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
14. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Piping bag or plastic zip-top bag

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover cheese cannelloni, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce instead of making the tomato sauce from scratch.

Can I freeze cheese cannelloni?

Yes, cheese cannelloni can be frozen before baking for up to 3 months. Simply assemble the dish as instructed, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake according to the recipe instructions.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Certainly! If you prefer a meaty filling, you can brown some ground beef or Italian sausage and mix it into the cheese mixture before stuffing the cannelloni tubes.

Food Pairings

Cheese cannelloni pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette and a glass of robust red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese. For a complete Italian feast, serve it alongside garlic bread or bruschetta for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, homemade cheese cannelloni is the ultimate comfort food indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this cheesy pasta dish is guaranteed to satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every cheesy bite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration!