Ingredients

12 manicotti
3 cups oyster mushrooms , chopped
2 cups leeks , chopped ( white and pale green parts )
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic , minced
4 ounces lean ground beef
1/4 beef stock
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup 5 % fat ricotta cheese
1/3 cup lowfat mozzarella cheese , shredded
3 tablespoons low-fat parmesan cheese , grated
1 large egg
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 black pepper , freshly ground
1 cup pasta sauce ( I use Five Brothers Marinara & Burgandy Wine )
3 tablespoons skim milk
Oyster Mushroom and Three Cheese Beef Manicotti is an indulgent and filling pasta dish that is perfect for a special dinner with family and friends. The hearty, rich flavors of beef, mushrooms, and three different types of cheese provide a perfect balance of taste and texture. The dish is perfect for those who love classic Italian cuisine and enjoy exploring unique flavors and ingredients. The recipe is easy to make, although it does require some preparation and cooking time. If you're looking for a comforting, delicious meal, this manicotti recipe is just the thing!

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375F
2.Cook manicotti according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain. Set aside.
3.In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms over medium heat for 5 minutes or until tender.
4.Add leeks and garlic to the skillet and stir occasionally until softened.
5.Add beef, broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes or until the beef is brown, stirring occasionally.
6.In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, the egg, salt, and black pepper.
7.Place manicotti on the bottom of an 11 x 7 inch baking dish. Stuff a few spoonfuls of cheese mixture into each manicotti.
8.Spoon beef mixture over cheese and manicotti. Top with pasta sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9.Uncover and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over dish. Bake for another 10 minutes.
10.Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

PROS

Rich and delicious dish with a balance of flavors from the cheese, mushrooms, and beef.

The dish is high in protein and has low-fat ingredients.

CONS

The cooking process can take up to 30 minutes, making it a time-consuming meal to prepare.

Some might find the dish too heavy.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Beef is an excellent source of protein, while the mushrooms add a dose of fiber, vitamin D, and antioxidants.
The dish also contains low-fat dairy products, which help in maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

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