Veal Cannelloni Recipe Perfect for Family Dinner Night

Veal cannelloni is a classic Italian dish that elevates traditional pasta to a luxurious level. Soft pasta tubes generously filled with tender, seasoned veal create a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Baked under a blanket of creamy béchamel sauce and rich tomato sauce, this dish is the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, veal cannelloni never fails to delight with its hearty yet refined taste.

In this detailed recipe, you’ll discover how to make authentic veal cannelloni from scratch, including a delicious filling, smooth sauces, and tips to achieve that perfect golden crust. Plus, we’ll explore some tasty variations and serving suggestions that will make your meal unforgettable.

Ready to bring a slice of Italy into your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veal cannelloni recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the use of veal lends a delicate, tender flavor that is less intense than beef but more nuanced and rich.

The filling combines veal with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs to create a savory, aromatic experience that pairs beautifully with the creamy béchamel and bright tomato sauce.

Secondly, the dish is incredibly versatile. You can prepare the pasta sheets yourself or use store-bought sheets for convenience.

The sauces can be adjusted for richness or tanginess depending on your preference. Most importantly, veal cannelloni is a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent, perfect for celebrations or cozy family dinners.

If you love Italian cuisine or are looking to expand your pasta repertoire, this recipe is a must-try. It also pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a glass of red wine to complete the experience.

Ingredients

• For the Veal Filling:
• 400g ground veal
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 100g ricotta cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Tomato Sauce:
• 400g canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Béchamel Sauce:
• 50g butter
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 600ml whole milk, warmed
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Additional:
• 12 cannelloni pasta tubes or fresh pasta sheets
• 100g grated mozzarella cheese

Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking dish (approx. 20x30cm)
• Whisk
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside once thickened.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. Prepare the Veal Filling: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
7. Add the ground veal, breaking it apart, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
8. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked veal mixture, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix thoroughly to combine.
9. Fill the Cannelloni: If using dried tubes, stuff each with the veal filling using a small spoon or piping bag. If using fresh pasta sheets, cut into rectangles (approx. 10x12cm), place filling along one edge, and roll tightly to form tubes.
10. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish.
11. Arrange the filled cannelloni side by side in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top, then cover evenly with the béchamel sauce.
12. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
13. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
14. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the veal while it’s cooking.

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.

You can substitute ground veal with a mix of veal and pork for a more robust filling. For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta and reduce the béchamel sauce.

If fresh pasta sheets aren’t available, no worries—pre-made cannelloni tubes work just as well.

For a vegetarian twist, try replacing veal with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and spinach. You can find more delicious and easy vegetarian recipes like this in our Active Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy and Energized Living collection.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Veal cannelloni pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, such as our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, will complement the veal and tomato flavors wonderfully.

To round out the meal, consider serving some crusty garlic bread or a light vegetable soup, such as our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food, for a comforting start.

Conclusion

Preparing veal cannelloni at home is a rewarding and delicious venture that brings the essence of Italian comfort food right to your dining table. With its tender veal filling, luscious sauces, and golden cheesy topping, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

The step-by-step instructions make it approachable even for home cooks new to Italian cuisine.

Beyond its incredible taste, veal cannelloni offers versatility, allowing you to tailor the recipe with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or even a vegetarian filling. Whether it’s a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe will become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes on our site to keep your meals exciting and flavorful!

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