The Best Homemade Cannelloni Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to my homemade cannelloni recipe! Cannelloni is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy home-cooked meal. In this recipe, I will show you how to make the perfect pasta dough, creamy ricotta filling, and flavorful tomato sauce. With a few simple tricks and techniques, you can make the best cannelloni you have ever tasted.

Ingredients

• For the pasta:
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1-2 tbsp water
• For the filling:
• 2 cups of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of spinach, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce:
• 1 can of crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pasta Dough

1. On a clean surface, pile up the flour and make a well in the center.
2. Add the eggs and salt in the center of the well and start whisking with a fork, gradually mixing the flour from the edges until a thick dough is formed.
3. Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little flour. If it is too dry, add some water. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese, spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
2. Spoon the filling into a piping bag or a plastic ziplock bag, cut one corner, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes until thickened.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4: Assemble the Cannelloni

1. Divide the pasta dough into four portions.
2. Roll out one portion into a thin rectangular sheet, about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut the sheet into squares, about 4 inches by 4 inches.
4. Pipe the filling onto each square and roll them tightly to form a cylinder.
5. Place the cannelloni in a baking dish, seam side down.
6. Cover the cannelloni with the tomato sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Cannelloni

1. Bake the cannelloni for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top.
2. Let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Conclusion

There is nothing quite like a homemade cannelloni that is prepared with love and care. With a little practice, you can master the art of making pasta dough and the ricotta filling in no time. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner with loved ones. Serve with a crisp salad and a glass of red wine for the perfect Italian-inspired meal!