Spinach Manicotti

Adapted from Better Homes and Garden


1 box manicotti shells
1/4 yellow onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 Tlb butter
2 Tlb flour
1 1/3 cup milk
3 oz Swiss cheese, torn
1/3 cup chicken broth
1 egg, beaten
1 10-ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and well drained
1/2 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 tsp lemon peel, zested


1. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain. Cool in a single layer on a piece of non-stick or greased foil.


2. For the sauce, in a medium saucepan cook onion and garlic in butter until tender. Stir in flour. Add milk all at once. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Add Swiss cheese and broth, stirring until cheese melts.


3. For filling, in a medium bowl stir together egg, spinach, cheeses, and lemon zest. Use a small spoon to fill the manicotti shells with filling. Arrange filled shells in a baking dish. Pour sauce over filled shells.


4. Bake, covered in a 350 degree oven for 30-35 minutes or until well heated through. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.