Introduction
This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Holiday Manicotti is a simple, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can create a cheesy, hearty pasta dish that tastes like it took hours of effort. It’s an easy recipe that delivers rich flavors with minimal preparation.
Description
Tender manicotti pasta is stuffed with a creamy cheese filling, covered in rich pasta sauce, and slowly cooked until perfectly tender. Melted mozzarella creates a golden, gooey topping that makes every bite warm and satisfying. This budget-friendly recipe is ideal for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package uncooked manicotti shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Spread about 1 cup of the marinara sauce over the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Fill each uncooked manicotti shell with the ricotta cheese using a spoon or piping bag.
- Arrange the filled manicotti in a single layer over the sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the manicotti, making sure all the pasta is well covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the manicotti rest for 10 minutes before serving to make it easier to lift from the slow cooker.
Tips
- Fully cover the manicotti with sauce to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
- Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for easy filling.
- Avoid overcooking, as the pasta can become too soft.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker for easier cleanup.
- Allow the dish to rest before serving so the filling stays intact.
Variations
- Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Mix grated Parmesan into the ricotta for extra flavor.
- Stir chopped spinach into the ricotta filling for added color and nutrition.
- Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan for a richer cheese topping.
- Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the finished dish for a bright, fresh touch.
Enjoy
Serve this warm, cheesy manicotti with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete holiday meal. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this effortless slow cooker recipe is sure to become a comforting favorite that everyone will request again and again.
