Description
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory marinara sauce and hearty ziti pasta. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Enjoy a delicious, stress-free dish with all the cheesy goodness you crave!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta (uncooked)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
- ½ pound Italian sausage (crumbled)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- ½ cup spinach
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. If using sausage, brown in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix together ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, and salt/pepper.
- Assemble: In the slow cooker, layer marinara sauce, cooked pasta, and cheese mixture. Repeat the layers and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until cheese is bubbly and pasta is tender.
Notes
- Variations: Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor. Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
