The aroma of a bubbling casserole brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter—an invitation to the heart of any home. Today, I want to share a dish that embodies comfort and warmth: Cannelloni Viande Hachée. This recipe perfectly blends succulent ground meat and creamy ricotta, making it not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a 15-minute prep time and an irresistible cheese topping, it's a simple yet satisfying option for busy weeknights. So, are you ready to fill your kitchen with those wonderful aromas and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why is Cannelloni Viande Hachée a Must-Try?
Comforting, hearty meal: Packed with savory ground meat and creamy ricotta, each bite delivers a sense of satisfaction.
Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of effort, you’ll have a stunning dish ready for your family.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Cheesy goodness: A golden, bubbly cheese topping adds an irresistible finishing touch! Try serving it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to make fresh pasta for an even more authentic experience!
Cannelloni Viande Hachée Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground meat – 500 g of your choice, adds richness to the dish.
• Ricotta cheese – 250 g, provides a creamy texture and balances flavors.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon, essential for enhancing the overall taste.
• Black pepper – 1 teaspoon, brings a subtle kick to the filling.
• Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon, adds a warm, aromatic note to the mix.
For the Cannelloni
• Cannelloni tubes – 400 g, perfect for stuffing with the savory mixture.
For the Topping
• Grated cheese – 100 g, ideally mozzarella or a blend, melts beautifully for that cheesy goodness.
• Tomato sauce – 300 ml, serves as a flavorful base that keeps the cannelloni moist.
Enjoy making this Cannelloni Viande Hachée and delight in every comforting bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cannelloni Viande Hachée
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the Cannelloni Viande Hachée. This step ensures even cooking and bubbling perfection. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients to streamline your cooking process, creating a cozy and organized workspace.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Cook it thoroughly for about 8-10 minutes until it's nicely browned and no longer pink, stirring regularly to ensure even cooking. The meat should develop a savory aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth, inviting your family for dinner.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Once the meat is browned, season it with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the meat. Cooking for another 2-3 minutes allows the flavors to meld together perfectly, creating a delightful filling for your Cannelloni.
Step 4: Incorporate Ricotta Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat, and gently fold in the ricotta cheese with the cooked meat until well combined. This creamy mixture will add a luscious texture to your filling. Take a moment to admire your creation before beginning to stuff the cannelloni.
Step 5: Stuff the Cannelloni Tubes
Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cannelloni tube with the savory meat and ricotta mixture. Aim to fill them generously, but avoid overstuffing to prevent any spills. Place the filled tubes in a baking dish, standing them upright if possible for an appealing presentation.
Step 6: Add Tomato Sauce
Once all the cannelloni are in the dish, pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top. The sauce will keep the cannelloni moist as they bake, enhancing the flavor of your Cannelloni Viande Hachée. Ensure every tube has a nice coating for a rich, comforting taste.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Grated Cheese
Generously sprinkle the grated cheese over the tomato sauce, creating a beautiful layer of cheesy goodness. Aim for even coverage, ensuring all the pasta is well-dressed. This step will contribute to the delectable, bubbly crust that makes Cannelloni so irresistible.
Step 8: Bake with Foil
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld and the cannelloni to become tender. The foil traps steam, ensuring every bite is wonderfully juicy and satisfying.
Step 9: Finish Baking Uncovered
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and irresistible. You’ll know your Cannelloni Viande Hachée is ready when it comes out with a beautiful crust on top that beckons to be savored.
Make Ahead Options
These Cannelloni Viande Hachée are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can prepare the filling (ground meat and ricotta mixture) up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure to refrigerate it to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can stuff the cannelloni tubes and assemble them in the baking dish with the tomato sauce and cheese topping up to 3 days ahead of time. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and cover with foil to bake for 30 minutes, followed by an additional 15 minutes uncovered. This way, you'll have a delicious, homemade dinner ready to impress your family with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Cannelloni Viande Hachée Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful tweaks to the classic Cannelloni Viande Hachée!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty yet plant-based filling. Imagine the depth of flavor as you add those earthy notes!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cannelloni or shells made from corn or rice flour to enjoy this comforting dish without the gluten. Your family won’t miss the traditional pasta one bit!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat filling for an exciting twist. The heat will awaken your taste buds and elevate your meal to a new level!
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Cheese Lover’s Delight: Incorporate a mix of cheeses in the filling, like mozzarella and Parmesan, for an enhanced creamy texture. The melting cheeses will create that dreamy, ooey-gooey effect!
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Herbaceous Freshness: Introduce fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the meat and ricotta mixture for an aromatic lift. This simple addition brightens up the entire dish for a fresh flavor profile.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the filling for an added crunch and a subtly nutty taste. The texture contrast will delight everyone at the table!
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Creamy Sauce Upgrade: Swap the tomato sauce for a creamy béchamel or Alfredo sauce to create a luscious, rich layer that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling. Perfect for those who prefer a decadent twist!
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Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before being baked.
Whichever variation you choose, your Cannelloni Viande Hachée is bound to become a comforting favorite for family dinners. Enjoy the journey of customization!
What to Serve with Cannelloni Viande Hachée?
Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that enhance the rich flavors of your cannelloni.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: These soft, buttery delights add a crunchy texture, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of Parmesan create a refreshing contrast to the hearty cannelloni.
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Steamed Broccoli: This bright green side provides a burst of color and a mild, nutty flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
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Homemade Tiramisu: Finish your meal with a classic Italian dessert that features layers of coffee-soaked sponge and mascarpone cream—pure bliss!
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Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the cannelloni, leaving you feeling revitalized after each bite.
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Balsamic Glazed Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies drizzled with balsamic elevates your meal with a sweet-tangy flavor that's just divine.
Consider a delightful spread that juxtaposes textures and flavors, creating an unforgettable dining experience for you and your loved ones.
How to Store and Freeze Cannelloni Viande Hachée
Fridge: Store leftover Cannelloni Viande Hachée in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: You can freeze Cannelloni Viande Hachée prior to baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil; it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: For best results, reheat baked cannelloni in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Expert Tips for Cannelloni Viande Hachée
Perfect Meat Texture: Use lean ground meat for a balanced flavor that won't be too greasy. Consider blending different meats like beef and pork for extra richness.
Avoid Overstuffing: While it may be tempting to pack the cannelloni tightly, overstuffing can cause spillage during baking. Fill them generously, but don’t overdo it!
Sauce Coverage: Make sure to generously cover the stuffed cannelloni with tomato sauce before adding the cheese. This helps keep them moist and prevents the pasta from drying out.
Bubbling Cheese: For that perfect bubbly cheese topping, broil the cannelloni for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Customize to Taste: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the meat filling for a personal touch. Just remember to chop them finely and sauté beforehand.
Allow to Rest: After baking, let the Cannelloni Viande Hachée rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling settle and makes for cleaner slices!
Cannelloni Viande Hachée Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat works best for Cannelloni Viande Hachée?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef for a deliciously rich flavor, but feel free to mix in ground pork for a little extra juiciness. You can even try turkey or chicken for a lighter version—experiment to find what fits your taste!
How should I store leftover Cannelloni Viande Hachée?
After enjoying this comforting dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I freeze Cannelloni Viande Hachée? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled, uncooked Cannelloni Viande Hachée tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as directed!
What should I do if my cannelloni shells break while stuffing?
Very common! If you find a shell breaks, don't worry—use larger pieces just to hold the filling. Alternatively, you can layer the filling and sauce in a baking dish like a lasagna! It may not be the traditional presentation, but it will still be satisfying and tasty.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cannelloni Viande Hachée?
Yes! If anyone has gluten intolerance, you could use gluten-free pasta alternatives. It’s also advisable to check the ricotta and grated cheese for any allergens. Should you be serving this during a gathering, let your guests know the ingredients so they feel comfortable indulging in this delicious meal.
How can I make Cannelloni Viande Hachée vegetarian?
If you'd like to swap out the meat, consider using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and lentils mixed with ricotta to create a hearty vegetarian filling. You can also incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for even more flavor and texture. Enjoy your culinary adventures with this versatile dish!
Savory Cannelloni Viande Hachée for Cozy Family Dinners
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking dish
- aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 500 g Ground meat of your choice, adds richness to the dish.
- 250 g Ricotta cheese provides a creamy texture and balances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Salt essential for enhancing the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper brings a subtle kick to the filling.
- 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic note to the mix.
For the Cannelloni
- 400 g Cannelloni tubes perfect for stuffing with the savory mixture.
For the Topping
- 100 g Grated cheese ideally mozzarella or a blend, melts beautifully.
- 300 ml Tomato sauce serves as a flavorful base that keeps the cannelloni moist.
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the Cannelloni Viande Hachée.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Cook thoroughly for 8-10 minutes until browned.
- Season browned meat with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the ricotta cheese until well combined.
- Carefully stuff each cannelloni tube with the meat and ricotta mixture.
- Pour tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed cannelloni in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the tomato sauce, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until cheese is golden.
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