Lazyacres

Manicotti Cheese Bake

8 manicotti shells

1 egg, beaten

2 c ricotta cheese

1 c shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 lb ground beef

1/4 c finely chopped onion

1/2 t garlic powder

2 c water

1 6 oz can tomato paste

1 1/2 t dried Italian seasoning

1 t sugar

salt

pepper

1/2 c shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 c grated parmesan cheese

Partially cook the manicotti shells in boiling salted water for 5 minutes.  Drain and set aside.

In a large bowl, stir together the egg, ricotta cheese, and 1 c mozzarella cheese.  Using a small spoon, fill each manicotti shell with some of the cheese mixture.

In a medium saucepan over med-high heat, stir together the ground beef, onion and garlic powder.  Cook until the beef is browned; drain the excess fat off.

Add the water, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt and pepper to taste.  Bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Preheat the oven to 350.  Spoon half of the sauce into the bottom of a 2 quart oval baking dish.  Place the filled manicotti shells in a single layer over the sauce in the dish.  Pour the remaining sauce over the shells.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and sprinkle the 1/2 c mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the shells and sauce.

Bake uncovered, for 10 minutes longer.

Yummmmmm