Grandma'S Manicotti Shells
Grandma's Manicotti Shells are delicate, homemade pasta shells with a light, tender texture. Perfect for stuffing with cheese or vegetables, they suit family dinners and special occasions. Their simple, classic flavor and soft, pliable shells make them a versatile base for various fillings and sauces.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together flour, egg, water, and a few grains of salt to form a smooth batter.
- Heat a small nonstick frypan over medium heat.
- Coat the frypan with oil using an oiled paper towel.
- Spoon a small amount of batter into the pan to spread evenly across the bottom.
- Cook until the edges begin to curl and the shell is light and cooked through.
- Flip the shell with fingers and cook a little longer if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother batter, sift the flour before mixing. You can substitute water with milk for richer shells. If you find the batter too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. To achieve even cooking, keep the heat consistent and avoid overcrowding the pan. These shells are versatile and can be filled with various ingredients, making them a great choice for any meal. Consider using leftovers from your Quick Italian Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these manicotti shells with your favorite filling, such as ricotta cheese and spinach, and top with marinara sauce. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread, enhancing the Italian flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Better Baked Ziti or a fresh Garden Vegetable Pasta dish to create a delightful Italian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover manicotti shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish with a drizzle of water, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For a crispier texture, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Manicotti Shells contains roughly 586 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly while resting.
What if my shells are too thick?
If your shells turn out too thick, it may be due to a batter that's too dense. Add a little more water to thin out the batter. Additionally, ensure you're using a small amount of batter for each shell, which helps achieve a thinner, more delicate shell.
Can I freeze the uncooked shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked manicotti shells. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to use, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).