There’s something deeply satisfying about a rich, cheesy pasta bake, especially when life gets hectic and time is limited. That’s where this slow cooker baked ziti comes in—a clever twist on the classic oven-baked dish, made even easier by letting your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. Inspired by traditional Italian-American comfort food, baked ziti shares much in common with lasagna but skips the layering, making it quicker to assemble. It’s ideal for weeknights when you want something hearty and homemade without standing over the stove for hours.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe delivers every time. It’s flexible too—you can adjust the protein, mix in vegetables, or spice things up to match your taste. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a side of garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. Add a sparkling drink or a glass of red wine, and you’ve got a dinner worth savoring with very little hands-on time.
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- In the slow cooker, combine the cooked meat, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the uncooked ziti pasta and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese across the top of the pasta mixture.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender.
- About 20 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if desired.
Variations & Tips:
To lighten the dish, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Vegetarians can skip the meat and add hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free pasta—just be mindful of cook time as it may soften more quickly. Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes:
This dish is rich in protein and calcium thanks to the blend of cheeses and meat. The tomato base contributes antioxidants like lycopene, while pasta offers complex carbs for sustained energy. It’s a warming, filling option for most people but may need adjusting for those watching sodium, dairy intake, or following gluten-free diets.
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