Mushroom and Herb Cannelloni

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Equipment:
Large pot
mixing bowl
baking dish
saucepan
wooden spoon
measuring cups
and spoons
Cuisine Type: Italian
Mushroom and Herb Cannelloni is a deliciously hearty dish that showcases the earthy flavors of mushrooms paired with aromatic herbs. This vegetarian option isn’t only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
The cannelloni tubes are filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, ricotta cheese, and fresh herbs, all topped with a rich marinara sauce and melted cheese for an indulgent finish. This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy pasta in a unique way, as the stuffed cannelloni tubes offer a delightful bite and a burst of flavor with every forkful.
The preparation is straightforward, and you can easily customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs to your liking. Serve it with a side salad and some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you have a meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 12 cannelloni tubes
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the chopped mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and all liquid has evaporated.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushrooms, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Carefully fill each cannelloni tube with the mushroom and cheese mixture using a small spoon or a piping bag. Once filled, arrange the cannelloni in a baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the filled cannelloni, ensuring that each tube is well covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once cooked, remove the cannelloni from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra herbs if desired and enjoy your delicious mushroom and herb cannelloni.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of different mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, and portobello. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce or even a pesto sauce for a unique twist.