Homestyle Cannelloni Classic
Homestyle cannelloni features tender pasta filled with a savory beef and spinach mixture, topped with rich marinara and melted cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion together until cooked through.
- Pour off the excess fat.
- Lay out cooked and drained lasagna noodles individually.
- Sprinkle each noodle with thawed chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano.
- Add a portion of the meat mixture on top of each noodle.
- Roll each noodle up tightly to resemble a jelly roll.
- Place the rolled-up noodles seam side down in a baking dish.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce over the rolled-up lasagna.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture. If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cannelloni hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and crusty garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup or browse more Italian recipes for inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cannelloni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homestyle Cannelloni Classic contains roughly 543 calories, with 27g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (187% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), and calcium (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 478mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
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 assemble the cannelloni up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze the cannelloni?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you're looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. If using a leaner meat, consider adding a bit of olive oil to maintain moisture.
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).