This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a cozy dish that’s super easy to make! It’s filled with pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey cheese that melts beautifully.
You can just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. I love how it fills my home with a delicious smell while I relax. Plus, leftovers taste even better! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used penne for this recipe, but ziti or rigatoni are also great options. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pastas may vary!
Ground Meat: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but Italian sausage adds a nice zing. You can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a meatless version, substitute with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you can’t find it or want a healthier choice, cottage cheese or even cream cheese can work too! I like to mix in some herbs for extra flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought sauces are convenient, but homemade is always a win! If you’re low on sauce, add some canned crushed tomatoes with a pinch of sugar for sweetness. You could also use pesto for a twist!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky since overcooked pasta ruins the dish. Here’s how to nail it:
- Don’t cook the pasta beforehand; add it uncooked directly to the slow cooker.
- Check your pasta after about 3.5 hours on low for tenderness. You want it al dente, not mushy.
- If the pasta appears too dry, add a splash of water or broth. This helps keep it moist until serving.
By keeping an eye on it and adjusting as needed, you can enjoy perfectly cooked pasta in your baked ziti!
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g)** penne pasta (ziti or rigatoni also work)
- 1 lb (450 g)** ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
- 1 small** onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves** garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz)** jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 (15 oz)** can of diced tomatoes (optional, for extra tomato chunks)
- 1 cup** water or beef broth
- 1 tsp** Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- 1/2 tsp** red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 oz** ricotta cheese
- 2 cups** shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup** grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti will take around 15 minutes to prep and then 3.5 to 4 hours to cook on low. It’s a hands-off process, so you can relax while it simmers and fills your home with wonderful aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, and cook it until browned. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, don’t forget to drain it away!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Create the Sauce:
Time to add flavor! Stir in your marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if you’re using them), Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the delicious meat sauce into the slow cooker. Add in the uncooked pasta and pour in the water or beef broth. Give everything a good stir to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce.
5. Add the Ricotta:
Dollop spoons of ricotta cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Don’t stir it in! Just leave it on top to melt while cooking.
6. Cook it Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 3.5 to 4 hours. During this time, try not to open the lid too often as you want to keep all the heat in!
7. Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before you dig in, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a bit of color and flavor. Serve warm straight from the slow cooker and enjoy every cheesy bite!
This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The gooey, melted cheese over the flavorful seasoned pasta and meat sauce is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added nutrition. Just keep in mind that it may require a slightly shorter cooking time, so start checking for doneness around the 3-hour mark.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply swap the meat for a combination of chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also add some extra beans for protein!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, baked ziti freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make This With Gluten-Free Pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe! Just be sure to check the package instructions as cooking times may differ from regular pasta.