Slow cooker baked ziti is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for busy days With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort you can create a hearty meal that the whole family will love This slow cooker version of the classic baked ziti ensures that the pasta soaks up all the rich flavors while staying tender and cheesy
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
One pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
One small onion finely chopped
Two cloves of garlic minced
One jar of marinara sauce about twenty four ounces
One can of diced tomatoes fourteen ounces drained
One teaspoon of Italian seasoning
One half teaspoon of salt
One fourth teaspoon of black pepper
For the Pasta and Cheese Mixture
Three cups of uncooked ziti or rigatoni pasta
One and one half cups of ricotta cheese
One cup of shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
One half cup of grated parmesan cheese
One egg
One fourth teaspoon of salt
One fourth teaspoon of black pepper
One fourth cup of chopped fresh parsley or one teaspoon of dried parsley
Instructions
Step One Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef or sausage until browned breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks
Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for an additional two to three minutes until the onion becomes soft
Drain any excess grease then stir in the marinara sauce diced tomatoes Italian seasoning salt and black pepper
Simmer for five minutes then remove from heat
Step Two Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl combine the ricotta cheese shredded mozzarella cheese grated parmesan cheese egg salt black pepper and parsley
Mix until well combined and set aside
Step Three Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker
Add half of the uncooked ziti pasta followed by half of the cheese mixture spreading it evenly
Repeat with another layer of meat sauce remaining pasta and remaining cheese mixture
Top with the remaining meat sauce and gently press everything down to ensure even cooking
Step Four Cook the Baked Ziti
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for four to five hours or on high for two to three hours until the pasta is tender
Step Five Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cover for an additional ten to fifteen minutes until the cheese is melted
Step Six Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with additional parsley or grated parmesan cheese and serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
For extra flavor use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage
Do not overcook to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft
Use whole milk ricotta cheese for a creamier texture
If you prefer a spicier dish add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce
Time Breakdown
Preparation time fifteen minutes
Cooking time four to five hours on low or two to three hours on high
Total time four to five hours
Servings
This recipe serves six to eight people making it perfect for family meals or meal prep
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This slow cooker baked ziti is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort The layers of rich meat sauce creamy cheese and tender pasta make it an irresistible dish Whether for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends this comforting meal is sure to be a hit