Cannelloni-Style Lasagna

Cannelloni-Style Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining the best elements of both dishes into one hearty, comforting meal. This dish layers the classic lasagna components—tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese—but with a nod to cannelloni, featuring a delicious ricotta and spinach filling traditionally used in stuffed pasta. The result is a dish that’s deeply satisfying, with the flavors of a traditional lasagna and the elegant presentation of cannelloni. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Cannelloni-Style Lasagna offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy two Italian favorites in one delicious bite.

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Ricotta Filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Make the Ricotta Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, drained spinach, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve:
   • Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Cannelloni-Style Lasagna combines the hearty, comforting layers of lasagna with the rich, creamy filling of cannelloni, creating a unique and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. This flavorful and satisfying meal is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a special family dinner.