Savory Crock Pot Manicotti Lasagna
A comforting and easy crock pot recipe layering uncooked manicotti shells with a creamy ricotta filling and marinara sauce, cooked low and slow for a hearty family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 uncooked manicotti shells
- 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups (960 ml) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Optionally add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Carefully stuff each uncooked manicotti shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Set aside.
- Spread 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the crock pot.
- Place the filled manicotti shells snugly on top of the sauce in a single layer without overlapping too much.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the manicotti shells, coating each well.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Transfer crock pot insert to a preheated oven broiler for a couple of minutes to brown the top.
- Let the manicotti rest with the lid off for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use uncooked manicotti shells for best results to absorb sauce and cook evenly. Avoid opening the crock pot lid during cooking to prevent heat loss. If sauce is thick, thin with water or broth. Optionally add fresh herbs or Italian seasoning to the filling. For a browned top, broil briefly after slow cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed manicotti
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 20
Keywords: crock pot, slow cooker, manicotti, lasagna, easy dinner, ricotta, marinara, family meal, comfort food