Ingredients

The following ingredients have 4 Servings
  • 14 manicotti shells
  • 16 ounces fat free cottage cheese
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
  • 2 ½ cups shredded part skim mozzarella cheese ((divided))
  • ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil (or 3-4 fresh basil leaves finely chopped)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 large jar (about 3 cups) light tomato basil sauce
  • ⅓ cup water

Instruction

  • Bring 4-5 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Add manicotti shells and continue to boil 10-12 minutes or until shells are tender and bendable but not quite completely cooked (you want them to be able to hold their shape somewhat when you fill them).
  • Preheat oven to 350 and lightly spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish or baking dish with cooking spray.
  • In a large bowl combine cottage cheese, spinach, 2 cups mozzarella, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Use a hand mixer to mix all ingredients 2-3 minutes or until all ingredients are incorporated. 
  • Pour 2/3 of sauce into the prepared baking dish. Use a spoon to carefully fill each manicotti shell with about 2-3 tablespoons of filling. Lay stuffed shells side by side in the baking dish. Add 1/3 cup water to dish. Cover shells with remaining sauce and top with remaining mozzarella cheese. 
  • Bake uncovered about 30 minutes or until shells are completely cooked, cheese is melted, and filling is hot. Serve hot and top with fresh basil if desired.