Mini Cannelloni

Mini cannelloni are a delightful twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With their delicate wonton wrappers filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, these bite-sized delights are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, mini cannelloni are sure to steal the show. Let’s dive into why you should add this recipe to your collection and how to make them from scratch.

Top Reasons to Make Mini Cannelloni

• Quick and Easy: With fresh wonton wrappers, you can skip the labor-intensive pasta-making process.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: These mini bites are visually stunning and perfect for gatherings.
• Perfect Portion Control: Mini cannelloni make it easy to serve just the right amount.
• Deliciously Creamy: The ricotta filling provides a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with tomato sauce.

The Essentials

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (or basil, sage, tarragon)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, to taste
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh wonton wrappers (10 – 15)
• Olive oil, for drizzling
• Tomato sauce, for serving
• Parsley leaves, for garnish
• Shaved Parmesan, for garnish

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing Bowl: For combining your ricotta filling.
• Baking Dish: To hold your mini cannelloni while they bake.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing ingredients and filling the wrappers.
• Oven: For baking the cannelloni until golden and bubbly.
• Serving Platter: To present your beautiful mini cannelloni to your guests.

From Start to Finish: Mini Cannelloni

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your mini cannelloni will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley (or your preferred herb), grated Parmesan cheese to taste, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Cannelloni

Take a fresh wonton wrapper and place a heaping teaspoon of the ricotta mixture in the center. Fold the wrapper over to create a sealed pocket, ensuring there are no air bubbles. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish

Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil. Place the filled wonton wrappers seam-side down in the dish, arranging them closely together but not overcrowding.

Step 5: Add Tomato Sauce

Pour your desired amount of tomato sauce over the assembled mini cannelloni, making sure they are well-coated. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the tops are golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your mini cannelloni hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves and shaved Parmesan cheese on top.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat ricotta cheese to reduce calories.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute wonton wrappers with gluten-free options.
• Vegetarian: Stick to the ricotta filling and add more vegetables for added nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Use different fresh herbs to add flavor without added calories.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overfill the wonton wrappers; they can burst during cooking.
• Make sure to seal the edges of the wrappers properly to prevent leakage.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking; let them cool a bit for easier serving.
• Be careful not to burn the tops; keep an eye on them during the last minutes of baking.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

To store leftover mini cannelloni, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen before baking. To do this, assemble the cannelloni, place them in a freezer-safe dish, and cover with plastic wrap, followed by foil. They will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If reheating, you may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mascarpone, cottage cheese, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make mini cannelloni ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out.

What can I serve with mini cannelloni?

Mini cannelloni pair well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, you can certainly add cooked ground meat, such as beef or chicken, to the ricotta filling for a heartier option.

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Bring It to the Table

Mini cannelloni are more than just a meal; they are an experience. The process of filling and baking these delicious bites can be a fun activity for family and friends, making it a perfect dish to bring to the table. With their rich flavors and elegant presentation, these mini cannelloni will fill your kitchen with warmth and delight. So gather your loved ones, serve these delectable treats, and watch as they disappear in a matter of moments. Enjoy every bite, and remember, the joy of cooking is all about sharing and creating memories together. Happy cooking!