Mexican Stuffed Manicotti Shells

A family favorite that may easily can be doubled --- the chili powder and cumin can be adjusted to taste.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  ounces  manicotti, cooked only until firm-tender
• 1  lb ground beef
• 1  onion, chopped
• 2  tablespoons  fresh minced garlic
• 1  teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 -2  teaspoon  dried chili pepper flakes (or to taste, add in if you like spicy) (optional)
• 1  small green bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
•  seasoning salt
•  pepper
• 1⁄3 cup  grated parmesan cheese
• 1  tablespoon chili powder (or to taste)
• 1⁄2 tablespoon cumin (or to taste)
• 1⁄2 cup  prepared salsa (medium heat or spicy)
• 1⁄3 cup sour cream
•  grated parmesan cheese
• 2  cups cheddar cheese, shredded (or to taste)
• 1  head lettuce
• 2  tomatoes, chopped
• 1  green bell pepper, seeded and chopped

Directions

1. Set oven to 350 degrees.
2. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
3. In a heavy skillet brown the ground beef with onions, garlic, bell pepper, oregano and chili flakes (about 6 minutes) drain fat.
4. Add in 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese and season with seasoning salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Stir in the salsa and continue to cook for about 5-6 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream.
7. Stuff the cooked manicotti shells with the meat mixture.
8. Arrange the shells in the baking dish.
9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese lighty over the shells.
10. Cover tightly with foil and bake 15-20 minutes.
11. Uncover and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over and return to oven uncovered for another 5-7 minutes.
12. Serve with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes and chopped bell peppers.
13. Delicious!