Stuffed Manicotti

Stuffed Manicotti

1 pound ground beef
2 cups water
2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
1 medium onion, chopped
6 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, divided
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided
3 cups ricotta cheese
1-1/4 cups grated Romano or Parmesan cheese, divided
2 eggs, lightly beaten
8 large manicotti shells, cooked and drained

In a large skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in the water, tomato paste, onion, 2 tablespoons parsley, basil, garlic, 1-1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, combine the ricotta cheese, 3/4 cup Romano cheese, eggs and remaining parsley, salt and pepper. Stuff into manicotti shells.

Pour half of the meat sauce into a greased 11-in. x 7-in. baking dish. Arrange shells over sauce. Top with sauce; sprinkle with remaining Romano cheese. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until heated through. Makes 4 servings.