Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Cannelloni Recipe (Easy Baked Pasta Rolls with Creamy Cheese and Ground Beef)
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines pasta, meat, and plenty of melty cheese, baked beef-stuffed cannelloni is the answer. This Italian-inspired dish features tender pasta tubes filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, herbs, and creamy cheese, all baked under a golden layer of mozzarella until bubbling and irresistible. Cannelloni may look fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare beef cannelloni step by step, discover tips for making the filling perfectly creamy, explore variations to suit different tastes, and find ideas for serving this hearty dish. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, cheesy beef-stuffed cannelloni is a recipe that never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Cannelloni Recipe
This dish is not just about pasta and cheese; it’s about creating a balanced flavor experience. The ground beef is seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs, giving the filling depth and richness. Creamy ricotta or cottage cheese brings smoothness, while mozzarella adds that satisfying stretch. Baked together, the result is a comforting, hearty meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Cannelloni also freezes well, making it a great choice for meal prep. You can prepare a pan in advance, freeze it, and bake it later when you’re short on time. It’s versatile too—perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Cannelloni
Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
- 12 cannelloni pasta tubes (or lasagna sheets rolled into tubes)
- 1 pound ground beef (lean works best)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1 egg (for binding)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes
Beef: Ground beef is traditional, but you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or lentils.
Cheese: Ricotta gives the filling a creamy texture. If unavailable, use cottage cheese or mascarpone. Mozzarella provides the melty topping, while Parmesan adds sharpness.
Sauce: A simple marinara works beautifully, but a béchamel or creamy Alfredo sauce can be used for a richer twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
If using dried cannelloni tubes, cook them until slightly softened but still firm. Drain and set aside. If using lasagna sheets, boil them until flexible, then drain and pat dry.
2. Make the Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat.
- Stir in Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef with ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Mix until creamy and well combined.
3. Stuff the Cannelloni
- Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cannelloni tube with the beef mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed tubes in a greased baking dish.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Place the filled cannelloni on top.
- Cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra parsley or basil.
Variations
- Spinach and Beef Cannelloni: Add chopped spinach to the filling for extra greens.
- Four-Cheese Cannelloni: Use a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone for a richer cheese profile.
- White Sauce Cannelloni: Replace marinara with béchamel for a creamy baked dish.
- Vegetarian Cannelloni: Swap beef for mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils.
- Spicy Cannelloni: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Cannelloni pairs wonderfully with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot
- Roasted vegetables for a balanced meal
Tips for Success
- Use a piping bag for easy filling of the pasta tubes.
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it will soften in the oven.
- Let the baked cannelloni rest before cutting—it helps the filling set.
- Make extra sauce to serve on the side for dipping.
Storage and Freezing
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven or in the microwave.
- Freeze unbaked cannelloni for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes of cooking time.
FAQs
Can I use manicotti instead of cannelloni? Yes, manicotti shells are similar and work perfectly for this recipe.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I have to boil the pasta first? Some brands sell oven-ready cannelloni tubes. If using those, follow the package directions.
Conclusion
Cheesy beef-stuffed cannelloni is the definition of comfort food. With its creamy beef filling, tender pasta, and golden baked cheese topping, it’s a dish that feels special while remaining simple to prepare. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find endless variations to try, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen.
Whether you’re making it for family dinner, entertaining friends, or preparing freezer-friendly meals, this baked pasta dish is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with salad and bread, and you have a complete meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
