Introduction:
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American dish that brings together layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey melted mozzarella. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at home. It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies with every cheesy, flavorful bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti simplifies the traditional baked ziti by utilizing the convenience of a slow cooker. It allows the flavors to meld together slowly, resulting in a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. The layering technique ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness, from the tender pasta to the cheesy, meaty goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 16 oz Dried Ziti
- 2 jars Pasta Sauce (marinara or tomato basil)
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 cups Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Eggs
- 15 oz Tomato Sauce
- 1/3 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- Cooking Spray (for greasing)
Step-by-Step Directions:
Step 1: Prepare The Ingredients
Cook The Ground Beef:
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Make The Cheese Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, and chopped basil. Mix until well combined.
Prepare The Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and pasta sauce to combine well.
Step 2: Assemble The Ziti In The Slow Cooker
Grease The Slow Cooker:
Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Layer The Ingredients:
- Spread about 2⅓ cups of the sauce mixture evenly over the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add a layer of dried ziti (about a third of the pasta), spreading it evenly over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the ziti.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over the Parmesan layer.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
Step 3: Cooking The Ziti
Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it to high heat. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Add Mozzarella:
About 10-15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top of the ziti. Cover again and let the cheese melt.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve:
Once the mozzarella is fully melted, scoop the ziti into bowls or onto plates. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this slow-cooked Italian classic.
Tips:
- Customize with your favorite additions such as spinach, mushrooms, or extra herbs.
- Ensure the slow cooker is well-greased to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick and delicious meal.
Storage Options:
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.
This format maintains clarity and ease of following along, ensuring the recipe is both detailed and straightforward for anyone looking to recreate it.