Fried Lasagna Bites

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus more for frying
• 1/4 cup chopped basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 14 to 16 manicotti shells
• 1 pound shredded mozzarella
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 quart cottage cheese, strained
• 1 white onion, diced (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 cups plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 pound ground beef