Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
A comforting and delicious Slow Cooker Baked Ziti made with layers of pasta, cheese, and marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound ziti pasta Cook according to package instructions
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
Cheese
- 1 can ricotta cheese (15 oz)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Meat (Optional)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Optional
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- If using meat, place a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat.
Mix Ingredients
- In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and the cooked meat (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well until evenly combined.
Layer and Cook
- Layer half of the ziti mixture in the bottom of the slow cooker. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Repeat with the remaining ziti mixture and cheeses.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the cheeses are bubbly and melted.
Serve
- Once cooked, garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.
Notes
Cooking Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it's al dente; it will continue to cook in the slow cooker and you don’t want it to become mushy. Cheese Options: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses based on your preference. For added flavor, you could use smoked mozzarella or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Make It Vegetarian: Omit the meat and substitute with additional vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.