4 Ingredient Slow Cooker Holiday Manicotti

Introduction

If you’re searching for an easy and comforting holiday meal, this Slow Cooker Manicotti recipe is a wonderful choice. Made with only four simple ingredients, this cheesy pasta dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while you enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 jar (24–26 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce

1 container (15–16 ounces) whole milk ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese blend, divided

12–14 uncooked manicotti shells

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 6

Instructions

Start by lightly greasing the inside of a 5–6 quart slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Spread about half a cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base layer.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly blended.

Transfer the cheese filling into a large resealable plastic bag. Cut a small corner from the bag to easily pipe the filling into the manicotti shells.

Carefully fill each uncooked manicotti tube from both ends until completely stuffed with the ricotta mixture.

Place the filled manicotti in a single layer inside the slow cooker. Arrange them closely together without stacking.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the pasta, making sure the manicotti is fully covered with sauce.

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours, or until the pasta becomes tender.

Once cooked, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and continue cooking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts completely.

Allow the manicotti to rest on the WARM setting for about 10 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, you can mix cooked ground beef, sausage, or chopped spinach into the ricotta filling. Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving also adds freshness and color to the dish.

Cooking Method

Slow cooking allows the pasta to absorb the rich tomato sauce while keeping the filling creamy and delicious. Using a zip-top bag as a piping tool makes filling the manicotti quick, simple, and mess-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute fresh pasta for dry manicotti?

Yes, fresh pasta can be used, but it may require a shorter cooking time since it softens faster.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. You can freeze the prepared manicotti before cooking for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

This easy Slow Cooker Holiday Manicotti is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavor. It’s a perfect meal for holiday celebrations or cozy family dinners. With minimal preparation and delicious results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.