Homemade Cheese Manicotti Shells π§π
Description:
Indulge in the heartwarming tradition of crafting Homemade Cheese Manicotti Shells, a cherished Christmas specialty that radiates comfort and joy. Each delicate shell, meticulously prepared with love, promises a culinary journey that’s “melt in your mouth good,” making every second of preparation worthwhile. Whether served as a first course, allowing approximately 2 shells per person, or as a main course paired with a refreshing salad, 4 shells per serving will surely satisfy your cravings for Italian comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated romano cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley
- Tomato sauce (for filling and topping)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 485
- Fat: 29.9g
- Saturated Fat: 16.9g
- Cholesterol: 308.5mg
- Sodium: 655mg
- Carbohydrates: 20.9g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 31.9g
Servings: 12
Yield: 50-60 unfilled shells
Instructions:
| Step | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Batter: In a blender, combine eggs, all-purpose flour, water, and salt. Blend until a thin, crepe-like batter forms. | Prep: 15 mins |
| 2 | Heat a skillet (5 to 6 inches) over medium heat for about 5 minutes. | Prep: 5 mins |
| 3 | Cook the Shells: Pour 1/3 cup of batter into the hot skillet, swirling quickly to cover the bottom completely. Cook for 30 seconds until the edges curl away from the pan. Repeat until all batter is used. | Cook: 30 mins |
| 4 | Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, eggs, romano cheese, and chopped parsley until light and fluffy. | Prep: 5 mins |
| 5 | Fill the Shells: Spoon 1 rounded tablespoon of cheese filling into the center of each shell. Fold both ends into the middle and gently flatten the filling. | Prep: 10 mins |
| 6 | Assemble the Manicotti: Place filled shells folded side down in a roasting pan or on a cookie sheet coated with tomato sauce. Top with additional sauce. | Prep: 10 mins |
| 7 | Bake: Preheat the oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and bake the manicotti for 35-45 minutes until the cheese sets and the shells are firm to the touch. | Cook: 35-45 mins |
Tips:
- Be patient when cooking the shells; success comes with practice. Aim for thin, pliable shells that are light in color.
- To avoid sticking, ensure your skillet is properly seasoned. If a shell sticks, gently scrape it out without wetting the pan.
- These manicotti can be frozen before or after baking for make-ahead convenience. Simply thaw before reheating.
Savor the joy of creating these Homemade Cheese Manicotti Shells, a labor of love that’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aroma as you celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. Buon Appetito! πβ¨
