Description
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian classic that brings together layers of gooey cheese, hearty pasta, and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish cooks slowly to develop deep flavors while you go about your day. Dive into this cheesy delight that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping herbs and measuring cheeses.
- If using, brown ground beef or sausage in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
- Layer the bottom of the slow cooker with marinara sauce, followed by ziti pasta, meat (if using), cheese mixture, and remaining sauce until full.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Substitute ground meat with vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or swap cheeses based on your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.