BAKED MANICOTTI

Steps:

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Saute onions, garlic, ground sausage, and beef until meat is well browned and crumbled.
• Prepare Manicotti shells as per package directions except cut the cook time in HALF.
• Drain and cover with cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent the shells from cracking.
• To the ground pork/beef mixture add the spinach and ricotta cheese.
• When the mixture is cool, add the beaten eggs.
• Spread 1/4 cup spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Gently drain the manicotti shells and carefully stuff each one with the meat and cheese mixture; place shells in prepared dish.
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the white sauce by melting the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir in flour and chicken bouillon.
• Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring constantly, until it begins to bubble.
• Stir in half and half and bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
• Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Remove from heat and stir in parsley.
• Pour or ladle the sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
• Stir the basil into the remaining spaghetti sauce.
• Carefully pour or ladle spaghetti sauce over the white sauce, trying to layer the sauces without mixing.
• Cover and bake for 40 minutes.
• Remove from oven, uncover and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
• Bake, uncovered, for 10 minutes more.