This slow cooker baked ziti is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a large group. It’s packed with meat, cheese, and classic Italian flavors, making it a go-to recipe for busy days when you want a delicious dinner without too much fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or ground sausage: Choose either beef for a milder flavor or sausage for a spicier kick.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 minced garlic clove or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic enhances the savory flavor.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the sauce.
- 2 (24-ounce) jars pasta sauce: Choose your favorite marinara or tomato-based sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) jar tomato sauce: Adds more tomato flavor and helps coat the pasta.
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese: For a creamy layer in the ziti.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbs add a bright, fragrant note.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds richness and umami.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: For gooey, melty cheese throughout the dish.
- 1 (16-ounce) box ziti pasta: The star of the dish, uncooked.
Instructions:
- Brown the Meat:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and diced onion. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until the meat is browned and the onion is softened (about 8-10 minutes). If there’s excess grease, drain it off.
- Season the Meat:
- Add the minced garlic (or garlic powder), Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to the meat mixture. Stir well and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Sauces:
- Pour in both jars of pasta sauce and the jar of tomato sauce. Stir to combine, then set the mixture aside.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, large egg, chopped fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This will be your cheesy layer that adds creaminess to the dish.
- Assemble the Baked Ziti in the Crock Pot:
- Grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour 1/3 of the meat sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread it out evenly.
- Scatter 1/3 of the uncooked ziti pasta over the sauce.
- Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti, spreading it out as evenly as possible.
- Repeat the layers: Add another 1/3 of the sauce, 1/3 of the uncooked ziti, and the remaining ricotta mixture.
- Finally, top with the last 1/3 of the sauce and the remaining ziti. Make sure the pasta is fully covered with sauce to ensure it cooks properly.
- Cook the Ziti:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours.
- Be careful not to overcook the ziti, as it can become soggy. The pasta should be tender but still have a bit of bite (al dente).
- Add the Final Cheese Layer:
- Once the ziti is cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the slow cooker again and let the cheese melt, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and gooey, your Crock Pot Baked Ziti is ready to serve. Scoop portions directly from the slow cooker onto plates or bowls. This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread.
- Store Leftovers:
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ziti will keep for 4 to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature.
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!