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Craving the warmth of a homemade pasta bake with minimal fuss? Then you’ll love this comforting recipe that combines tender manicotti shells, rich tomato sauce, and savory ground beef, all layered to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s a perfect twist on the classic lasagna style—no boiling or fuss required!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) tomato pasta sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 box manicotti shells (uncooked)
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet set over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion softens and the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper, then let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes.
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese with 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese. Spoon this ricotta mixture into the manicotti shells—you can do this carefully with a small spoon or use a disposable piping bag for extra ease.
Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. Spoon a layer of your beefy tomato sauce on the bottom, then arrange the filled manicotti shells on top of the sauce. Continue layering until you’ve used all the shells and sauce, ending with sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese over everything.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the manicotti shells are tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so the layers set and the cheese settles beautifully.
This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser for everyone from busy parents to pasta-loving foodies. The slow cooker does most of the work and fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. If you’re watching calories, opt for lean ground beef or turkey and reduced-fat cheeses. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or swap in sausage for the beef. Whatever you do, this cheesy, comforting meal is bound to impress with its rich flavor and effortless preparation.
