Canelones a la Dominicana

The Canelones a la Dominicana is a dish that brings back fond memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. Growing up, my grandmother would prepare these delightful cannelloni stuffed with a savory meat filling, bathed in a creamy béchamel sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that tell a story of tradition and love. I remember the smell wafting through the kitchen, inviting everyone to come and enjoy a delicious meal together. This dish is more than just food; it’s a connection to my roots and a way to share a piece of my heritage with friends and family. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a festive celebration, Canelones a la Dominicana always brings a smile to our faces and warmth to our hearts.

One of the reasons I absolutely adore making Canelones a la Dominicana is the versatility it offers. You can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste, whether you prefer beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian option. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying experience. The creamy béchamel sauce adds a layer of richness, while the melted mozzarella gives that comforting cheesy goodness we all crave. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

These cannelloni are also a great make-ahead option. I often prepare them in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them into the oven and let the magic happen! Plus, they’re fantastic for meal prepping, ensuring that you have a delicious homemade dinner waiting for you after a long day. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving Canelones a la Dominicana time and again!

Canelones a la Dominicana Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Canelones a la Dominicana. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the dish’s unique flavor profile. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty meat, and creamy sauces ensure a delightful experience that will leave everyone satisfied.

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – A necessary fat for sautéing the vegetables and meat, giving a rich flavor.
• 1 pound of minced beef – The main protein source, providing a savory filling.
• 1 medium red onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 1 red bell pepper – Offers a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
• 4 cloves of garlic – Enhances the flavors with its aromatic profile.
• 1 large tomato – Freshness and acidity balance the richness of the filling.
• 1 cup of tomato sauce – Provides moisture and binds the filling together.
• 3 teaspoons of salt – Essential for flavoring the filling.
• 1½ teaspoons of pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• 4 tablespoons of minced parsley – Freshness and color to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons of butter – Gives richness to the béchamel sauce.
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour – For thickening the béchamel sauce.
• 2¼ cups of whole milk – The base of the béchamel sauce for creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon of salt – Divided for seasoning the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of pepper – Divided for seasoning the sauce.
• 12 cannelloni – The pasta that holds all the goodness inside.
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella – The gooey topping that brings it all together.
• 4 tablespoons of minced parsley – For garnishing and added freshness.

Step by Step Instructions for Canelones a la Dominicana

Making Canelones a la Dominicana is a delightful experience that allows you to connect with your food. Follow these detailed steps to create this comforting dish. You’ll be amazed at how rewarding it is to make something from scratch!

1. Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pan. Once hot, add the minced beef. Stir the meat constantly, breaking up any clumps, until it changes color and all liquid has evaporated. You want to see it lightly browned, which should take about 5 minutes.

2. Next, add the minced onion and crushed garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion turns translucent. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of your filling.

3. Now, toss in the minced tomato and minced red bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Pour in the tomato sauce and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in the minced parsley before removing it from heat.

5. While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.

6. Once melted, add all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously to combine, making sure there are no clumps. Cook while stirring for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the flour turns a light golden color.

7. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir vigorously to prevent clumping. After it’s thoroughly mixed, keep stirring on low heat for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, resembling drinkable yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Remove the béchamel sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.

9. In a lasagna baking pan, pour half of the béchamel sauce, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Fill the uncooked cannelloni with the meat filling using a small spoon. Place the stuffed cannelloni in the baking pan, ensuring they are nicely arranged.

10. Cover the filled cannelloni with the remaining béchamel sauce, making sure they are entirely bathed. Tightly cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

11. After that, uncover the pan, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, and return it to the oven. Switch to the broiler setting and cook until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, which should take a few minutes.

12. When done, remove from the oven and garnish with more minced parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Canelones a la Dominicana with your loved ones!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Cooking should be fun and flexible! Here are some tips to help you get the best out of your Canelones a la Dominicana:

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cannelloni. Just assemble them, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to the cooking.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the filling, like zucchini or spinach, for added nutrition.
• Serving size: One serving typically consists of two to three cannelloni, making it easy to portion for dinner.

Side Dish Ideas for Canelones a la Dominicana

Pairing the right side dishes with your Canelones a la Dominicana can elevate your meal and create a complete dining experience. Here are some ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious béchamel sauce.
• Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cannelloni.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, complement the dish while adding color and nutrition.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple, lightly seasoned green beans add a nice pop of color and balance the heaviness of the meal.
• Cooked Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, serve quinoa seasoned with herbs as a side for added protein and texture.
• Occasions: Canelones a la Dominicana is excellent for family dinners, special occasions, and gatherings with friends. Its hearty nature makes it a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

Conclusion

Canelones a la Dominicana is a dish that beautifully represents the fusion of cultures and flavors, making it a cherished recipe in many families. Its comforting nature and delicious taste make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special celebration with loved ones. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to the table. Share it with your family and friends, and let the flavors create lasting memories!

Canelones a la Dominicana

The ultimate comfort food, Canelones a la Dominicana features rich, savory beef stuffed in tender pasta, enveloped in a creamy béchamel sauce, and topped with bubbling mozzarella. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to impress family and friends, making it a must-try tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Dominican

Calories: 590

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound minced beef
• 1 medium red onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• 4 cloves garlic (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 large tomato
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 3 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1.5 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 4 tablespoon minced parsley
• 3 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2.25 cup whole milk (or skim)
• 1 teaspoon salt divided (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon pepper divided (or to taste)
• 12 cannelloni box labeled "No pre-cooking"
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 4 tablespoon minced parsley

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Start by heating the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pan. Once hot, add the minced beef. Stir the meat constantly, breaking up any clumps, until it changes color and all liquid has evaporated. You want to see it lightly browned, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Next, add the minced onion and crushed garlic to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion turns translucent. This will enhance the aroma and flavor of your filling.
3. Now, toss in the minced tomato and minced red bell pepper. Stir everything together and cook for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pan and let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid evaporates. Stir in the minced parsley before removing it from heat.
5. While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat.
6. Once melted, add all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously to combine, making sure there are no clumps. Cook while stirring for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the flour turns a light golden color.
7. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir vigorously to prevent clumping. After it’s thoroughly mixed, keep stirring on low heat for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, resembling drinkable yogurt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove the béchamel sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature. It will thicken further as it cools.
9. In a lasagna baking pan, pour half of the béchamel sauce, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Fill the uncooked cannelloni with the meat filling using a small spoon. Place the stuffed cannelloni in the baking pan, ensuring they are nicely arranged.
10. Cover the filled cannelloni with the remaining béchamel sauce, making sure they are entirely bathed. Tightly cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
11. After that, uncover the pan, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, and return it to the oven. Switch to the broiler setting and cook until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, which should take a few minutes.
12. When done, remove from the oven and garnish with more minced parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Canelones a la Dominicana with your loved ones!

Notes

• Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cannelloni. Just assemble them, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to the cooking.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables into the filling, like zucchini or spinach, for added nutrition.
• Serving size: One serving typically consists of two to three cannelloni, making it easy to portion for dinner.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.