MANICOTTI WITH MEAT SAUCE RECIPES

Steps:

• Cook manicotti according to package directions; drain. In a large skillet, cook the beef, onion and green pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano and thyme; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Add 1/2 cup cheese; stir until melted., Stuff half meat mixture into manicotti shells; arrange in a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Spoon remaining meat mixture over shells. , Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese; bake 5-10 minutes longer or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Steps:

• Boil water and cook shells according to package directions, make sure to make them al dente.
• Meanwhile, saute onions and garlic in oil.
• Add turkey and salt and brown until cooked, breaking up in small pieces.
• Add tomatoes, salt, pepper and basil, then simmer on low, covered, about 15 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 375°.
• In a large bowl, mix together ricotta, egg, spinach, mozzarella, and parmesan.
• Once shells are cooked and cool, fill each shell with (about 2 heaping tbsp) cheese mixture and place on a large baking dish, or two smaller dishes, covering the bottom of the dish with a little sauce.
• Top shells with half of the sauce, cover with foil and bake 40 minutes; uncover foil and bake 5 more minutes.
• Serve with additional sauce on top.