Canneloni Roma
Canneloni Roma is a delightful Italian dish featuring manicotti shells stuffed with a savory blend of ground beef, cheese, and spices, topped with rich tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, combining hearty flavors with a creamy texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown meat; drain.
- Add onion and cook until tender.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, egg, and seasonings.
- Fill shells.
- Place in baking dish.
- Top with tomatoes, sauce, and water.
- Cover with foil.
- Bake at 350° for 1 hour.
- Remove foil.
- Top with cheese and melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also add spinach or ricotta cheese to the filling for extra texture and nutrition. If you don't have manicotti shells, large shells or even lasagna noodles cut into strips work well as substitutes. Make sure to season your meat mixture well to enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Cannelloni Roma pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside Barbara'S Meatballs. A glass of red wine complements the flavors well, enhancing the Italian-inspired dining experience. You can also garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cannelloni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canneloni Roma contains roughly 363 calories, with 13g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don't have manicotti shells?
If you don't have manicotti shells, large pasta shells can be a great alternative. Alternatively, you can use lasagna noodles cut into strips or even zucchini slices for a low-carb option. Just ensure the filling is securely placed to prevent any spillage during cooking.
How do I know when the cannelloni is done baking?
The cannelloni is done when it is bubbly and heated through, usually after about 1 hour of baking. You can also check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should reach 165°F. The cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).