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This Cheesy Cannelloni Bolognese Bake is the kind of dish that speaks directly to the heart. It takes everything people love about traditional Bolognese and transforms it into something even more decadent, elegant, and satisfying. Instead of serving the sauce over pasta in a conventional way, this recipe creates individual portions baked inside cannelloni tubes, all smothered in béchamel and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan until golden, bubbly, and irresistible. It is at once luxurious and comforting, perfect for a family dinner yet refined enough for entertaining guests. The combination of pork and veal ragù simmered slowly with tomato, red wine, garlic, and onion produces layers of depth, while the creamy béchamel balances richness with smooth elegance. The melted cheeses pull it all together into a dish that feels both homestyle and restaurant-worthy.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 brown onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, crushed
500 g pork mince
500 g veal mince
¼ cup (70 g) tomato paste
3 cups (750 ml) tomato puree (passata)
½ cup (125 ml) red wine
2 bay leaves
1 cup (250 ml) chicken stock
Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste
500 g cannelloni tubes
250 g buffalo mozzarella, sliced

For the Béchamel Sauce:

40 g unsalted butter
¼ cup (35 g) plain (all-purpose) flour
2 cups (500 ml) milk
1½ cups (150 g) grated mozzarella
1¼ cups (100 g) grated Parmesan

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Add pork and veal mince, breaking them up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen its flavor.
Pour in tomato puree, red wine, chicken stock, and add bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper, then reduce heat and let simmer gently for 45 minutes to develop flavor. Remove bay leaves before using.
To make the béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted into a creamy sauce.
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Fill each cannelloni tube with the ragù mixture.
Spoon some ragù into the base of individual ramekins or a large baking dish, arrange filled cannelloni over it, then top with more ragù.
Pour béchamel over the top, spreading evenly, and layer slices of buffalo mozzarella.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. Let rest briefly before serving.

Nutrients

Rich in protein (pork and veal)
High in calcium (from mozzarella and Parmesan)
Contains beneficial fats from olive oil and dairy
A substantial source of energy from carbohydrates and dairy

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes this cheesy cannelloni bake special is the way it combines traditional flavors with a refined presentation. Instead of a big family tray, serving individual portions in ramekins elevates the dish into something more personal and elegant, making every serving feel thoughtfully prepared. The deep, slow-cooked ragù creates an aromatic base with hints of red wine and herbs, while the béchamel introduces a luxurious creaminess that ties the entire dish together. Once baked with mozzarella and Parmesan, the top becomes golden and bubbly, delivering both flavor and visual appeal. It is a dish that bridges the gap between rustic Italian comfort food and something worthy of a dinner party.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Every element of this dish has a role in creating harmony. Pork and veal mince give the ragù complexity that beef alone cannot achieve, resulting in a softer, richer flavor that lingers on the palate. Tomato paste and passata provide concentrated depth and vibrant acidity, balancing the meat’s richness. The addition of red wine enhances the sauce with earthy undertones, while garlic and onion form the aromatic backbone. Olive oil not only adds flavor but also supplies beneficial fats. The béchamel sauce, crafted from butter, flour, and milk, provides a creamy counterbalance that prevents the dish from feeling too heavy. Cheese, both mozzarella and Parmesan, is more than indulgence—it contributes calcium, texture, and savory layers that deepen as they bake. Each component is intentional, working together to make the dish satisfying and nutritionally robust.

Cooking Tips

Getting the best results from this dish comes down to patience and attention to detail. The ragù should be simmered slowly, allowing flavors to meld into a rich, cohesive sauce—this cannot be rushed. For the béchamel, constant whisking is key to a smooth, lump-free consistency, and using freshly grated cheese ensures better melting. When filling cannelloni tubes, spoon the ragù into a piping bag or use a small spoon for a neater process, ensuring they are fully filled to avoid hollow bites. Lining the base of your dish with sauce before arranging the cannelloni prevents sticking and infuses every bite with flavor. Keep an eye on the mozzarella as it bakes; covering with foil if browning too quickly ensures the dish cooks through evenly. Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking allows the layers to set and makes serving cleaner.

Serving Suggestions

The richness of this dish pairs wonderfully with fresh, contrasting sides. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides brightness and balance, cutting through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add depth without competing with the boldness of the bake. For those who enjoy wine, a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the meaty notes. Crusty garlic bread is almost essential, perfect for mopping up leftover sauce and cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled just before serving add a fresh pop of color and aroma. This is the type of dish that becomes the centerpiece of a meal, so surrounding it with lighter, complementary sides makes for a balanced dining experience.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cannelloni Bolognese Bake is more than just a pasta dish; it is a comforting celebration of flavors and textures that feels both familiar and indulgent. From the hearty ragù to the silky béchamel and bubbling cheeses, every element is layered with intention to create depth and satisfaction. It is a recipe that feels indulgent enough for special occasions yet simple enough to become a family favorite. Served individually, it brings elegance to the table, but its essence is still rooted in rustic comfort. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night at home or presented proudly to guests, it is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Each bite carries the warmth of tradition, the richness of careful layering, and the simple joy of homemade pasta baked to golden perfection—a dish to return to again and again.

Pin Title: Cheesy Cannelloni Bolognese Bake – Individual Comfort Food Perfection
Pin Description: Indulge in this rich and cozy individual cheesy cannelloni bolognese bake—featuring a slow-simmered pork and veal ragù, creamy béchamel, and golden melted mozzarella. The perfect dinner for weeknights or hosting.
Hashtags: #PastaBake #ComfortFood #DinnerRecipe

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