Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is a delicious and satisfying meal that provides 128 calories per serving. This classic Italian dish combines the rich flavors of ground meat and cheese inside pasta tubes, all baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is a great option that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

In addition to its great taste, Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is also a good source of essential nutrients. The dish contains high amounts of protein, calcium, and iron from meat and cheese, as well as vitamins and minerals from the tomato sauce.

If you're looking for a hearty and nutritious meal that is flavorful and easy to prepare, Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is a great choice. In this article, we'll provide you with useful information on how to make this dish, its nutritional benefits, and tips for cooking and serving it.

The Ingredients used in Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

The main ingredients used in Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce are pasta tubes, ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken), cheese (ricotta and mozzarella), tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. You can also add garlic, onions, and other vegetables to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. To make the dish, you will need to cook the pasta tubes until al dente and then stuff them with the meat and cheese filling. Place the tubes in a baking dish and cover them with tomato sauce and extra cheese. Bake the cannelloni until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Benefits of Eating Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is a nutritious meal that offers several health benefits. We've already mentioned that it's high in protein, calcium, and iron, but it also contains complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy. The dish is low in saturated fat if you use lean meat and low-fat cheese. The tomato sauce is also rich in vitamins C and A, and antioxidants that help prevent cellular damage. A serving of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce can help you feel full and satisfied for longer, which can help with weight management. It's also a great meal option for athletes or anyone who needs a quick source of energy.

Amount of Calories in Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

One serving (3.5 ounces or 100 grams) of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce contains about 128 calories. The calorie content may vary depending on the ingredients used and the portion size. However, this is a moderate amount of calories for a filling and nutritious meal.

Macronutrients Breakdown of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

A serving of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce (100 grams) contains approximately:

• calories: 128
• Protein: 8 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 13 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 3 grams

This macronutrient breakdown provides a balanced and nutritious meal that is high in protein and low in saturated fat.

Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce: A Filling Meal

Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is a filling and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side salad or garlic bread. The dish is rich and cheesy, providing a combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please your taste buds. It's an ideal meal for families, students, or anyone who wants a quick and easy dinner option. The cannelloni tubes can be stuffed in advance and kept in the fridge or freezer, making them a convenient meal prep option. You can also make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for later use.

Preparing Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

To make Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8-10 cannelloni pasta tubes
• 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare the dish, follow these steps:

1. Cook the pasta tubes in boiling water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat, stirring well to break up any clumps.
4. Add garlic, onion, or other vegetables to the skillet and continue cooking until softened.
5. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then mix well.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, ricotta cheese, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Stuff each pasta tube with the meat and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
8. Arrange the stuffed pasta tubes in a baking dish coated with cooking spray.
9. Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta, and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
10. Bake the Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations in Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

There are many variations of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Use turkey or vegetarian ground meat instead of beef or pork for a lighter option.
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or other chopped veggies to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the tomato sauce for Alfredo or pesto sauce for a creamy and rich texture.
• Top the cannelloni with breadcrumbs or grated parmesan cheese for added crunch.

Purchasing Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

You can purchase pre-made Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce from many grocery stores or Italian restaurants. However, making the dish from scratch at home is more affordable and allows you to customize it to your flavor preferences. When purchasing pre-made cannelloni, make sure to check the ingredients and nutritional information to ensure it meets your dietary needs.

Cooking Tips for Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

To make the perfect Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce, here are some cooking tips to keep in mind:

• Cook the pasta tubes until al dente, but do not overcook them, or they will become too soft and soggy when baked.
• When stuffing the pasta tubes, do not overfill them, or they will burst during baking.
• Top the cannelloni with enough cheese to cover them but not too much that it overpowers the other flavors.
• Let the cannelloni cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the dish to hold its shape.

Recommended Serving Size of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce

A serving size of Cannelloni Pasta with Cheese and Meat Sauce is about 3-4 pasta tubes, which provides approximately 128 calories. You can adjust the portion size based on your energy needs and dietary goals. It's important to balance your meal with a variety of foods from different food groups for optimal nutrition.