In our house, we call it ‘Lazy Day Ziti.’ It’s so good, no one would guess how effortless it is!
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Enjoy a delicious, comforting dinner with this easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. Made with tender pasta, seasoned ground meat, flavorful tomato sauce, and layers of creamy, melted cheese, this hearty dish is perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound uncooked ziti pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Make the sauce: Transfer the cooked meat to the slow cooker. Add the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add the pasta: Pour the uncooked ziti into the slow cooker and mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add the ricotta: Distribute spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta mixture.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours, or until the pasta is tender. Check occasionally to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
- Top with cheese: During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Spoon into serving bowls, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy while warm.
