Crockpot Baked Ziti

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This Crockpot Baked Ziti brings all the comfort of classic baked pasta with none of the fuss. It’s rich, cheesy, saucy, and wonderfully simple just layer everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days, family dinners, or anyone craving a warm and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
  4. Add half of the cooked ziti in an even layer.
  5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle on a layer of mozzarella.
  6. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese.
  7. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and marinara.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, until hot, melty, and bubbly.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with basil before serving.

Variation

  1. Swap the marinara for a hearty meat sauce to make the ziti extra rich and savory.
  2. Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for a veggie-packed version.
  3. Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for even more melty, stretchy cheese goodness.

Cooking Notes

  1. Be sure the pasta is cooked just to al dente it will continue softening as it slow-cooks.
  2. If your crockpot runs hot, check the ziti around the 4-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
  3. Letting the dish rest before serving helps the layers set and makes scooping much easier.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve with a fresh Caesar salad or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
  2. Pair with warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for the full Italian-comfort experience.
  3. Finish each bowl with fresh basil or extra Parmesan for a bright, flavorful touch.

Tips

  • Spray the crockpot lightly with nonstick spray to make cleanup easier.
  • For deeper flavor, stir a spoonful of pesto into the marinara before layering.
  • If you like extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional mozzarella during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Prep Time:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4–6 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes! Browned ground beef or Italian sausage can be added between the layers for extra richness.

  2. Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
    Absolutely, just blend it slightly for a smoother texture before layering.

  3. Can I cook it on high instead of low?
    You can, but the pasta may become too soft. Low and slow gives the best texture.

  4. Will gluten-free pasta work?
    Yes, but cook it slightly under al dente before layering to prevent mushiness.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Baked Ziti is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort saucy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. It’s the kind of set-and-forget dinner everyone loves, making busy evenings feel a little easier and a lot tastier. Enjoy every cozy bite!

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Crockpot Baked Ziti

  • Author: Avery
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
Print Recipe

Description

This Crockpot Baked Ziti brings all the comfort of classic baked pasta with none of the fuss. It’s rich, cheesy, saucy, and wonderfully simple just layer everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days, family dinners, or anyone craving a warm and satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the crockpot.
  4. Add half of the cooked ziti in an even layer.
  5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then sprinkle on a layer of mozzarella.
  6. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese.
  7. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and marinara.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours, until hot, melty, and bubbly.
  9. Let rest for 10 minutes, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with basil before serving.

Notes

  • For extra richness, stir a splash of heavy cream into the marinara sauce.
  • You can add browned ground beef or Italian sausage between layers for a heartier version.
  • If you prefer firmer pasta, cook closer to the 4-hour mark.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes + Time: 10 minutes resting
  • Cook Time: 4–6 hours
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: crockpot baked ziti, slow cooker pasta, easy family dinner

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