Ingredients

1 package manicotti pasta
1 pound lean ground beef
1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 egg whites
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 jar spaghetti sauce
Meat Filled Manicotti is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It consists of pasta shells stuffed with a tasty mixture of beef and cheese, baked in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It pairs well with a side salad and a glass of red wine to complete the Italian experience.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.
2.Cook manicotti pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside.
3.In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
4.In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, egg whites, and oregano.
5.Add the beef to the cheese mixture, mix well.
6.Stuff the cooked manicotti with the beef and cheese mixture.
7.Pour a layer of spaghetti sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8.Arrange the stuffed manicotti on top of the sauce in the dish.
9.Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the top of the manicotti and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10.Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
11.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
12.Serve hot and enjoy!

PROS

Meat Filled Manicotti is a delicious and hearty Italian dish perfect for a family dinner.

It is a great way to incorporate protein and calcium into your diet, thanks to the beef and cheese.

CONS

This recipe is not very healthy, as it contains a lot of cheese and pasta which can be high in fat and calories.

It is best enjoyed as an occasional treat in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this recipe may not be the healthiest, it does contain some beneficial nutrients.
The lean ground beef is a good source of protein and iron, while the cottage cheese and mozzarella cheese provide calcium which is important for our bones and teeth. Oregano is also a fantastic herb that has been linked to reducing inflammation and supporting good digestion.

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