Manicotti

12 large manicotti shells
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2 cups ricotta cheese
6 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or 2 tablespoons dried basil (optional)
1 (26 oz.) jar prepared spaghetti sauce, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 13" x 9" baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; rinse with cool water. Let pasta dry on paper towels.

3. For filling, in medium bowl, stir together 3 cups mozzarella with the ricotta and basil. Using a teaspoon, carefully stuff pasta shells with prepared cheese mixture.

4. Spoon 2 cups spaghetti sauce into prepared dish. Arrange stuffed pasta over sauce. Pour remaining spaghetti sauce over top of pasta. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.

5. Bake for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with the Parmesan; bake for 10 minutes longer. Serve immediately.

Serves 6