Lasagna-Stuffed Manicotti Shells

Ingredients

• 1 (15-ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1/2 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup part-skim shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 (8-ounce) package manicotti shells

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, parsley, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. In a separate medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Spread 1/2 cup of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Fill each manicotti shell with the ricotta cheese mixture. Place them in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
6. Spread the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells. Top with the cream cheese mixture.
7. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Manicotti is a type of pasta that is cylindrical in shape and is usually filled with a cheese or meat filling.
• The name “Manicotti” comes from the Italian word “manicare” which means “to handle with care”.
• Manicotti shells are typically made out of durum wheat flour, egg, and salt.
• Manicotti shells can be boiled or baked before filling.