Slow Cooker Baked Ziti: A Hearty Italian Classic Made Easy

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a piping hot baked ziti dish straight out of the oven. However, with our busy schedules, finding the time to prepare this classic Italian comfort food can be challenging. That’s where the slow cooker comes in! This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti recipe allows you to enjoy all the flavors of traditional baked ziti with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and the convenience of your trusty slow cooker, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy with your family any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16-ounce) package of ziti pasta, uncooked
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup water
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
• Optional: Ground sausage for added meatiness

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:

1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta:

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Layer the Ingredients:

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add a layer of cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce.
3. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the pasta, spreading it out evenly.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheese mixture.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the cheese layer.
6. Sprinkle the top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness.
7. Add the water around the edges of the slow cooker to prevent the pasta from drying out.

5. Cook:

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

1. Once cooked, garnish the baked ziti with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the deliciousness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked ground sausage or beef to the cheese mixture for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Customize the Sauce: Experiment with different varieties of marinara sauce or add a splash of red wine for extra flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

To make a keto and low-carb version of this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, you can make the following adjustments:

• Pasta Substitute: Replace the traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
• Low-Carb Sauce: Choose a marinara sauce with no added sugar or make your own keto-friendly sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I Use Different Types of Pasta? Yes! Feel free to substitute the ziti pasta with penne, rigatoni, or any other type of pasta you prefer.
2. Can I Freeze Leftover Baked Ziti? Absolutely! Allow the baked ziti to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
3. Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish? Of course! Feel free to add diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
4. What Can I Serve With Baked Ziti? Baked ziti pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
5. Can I Double the Recipe? Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch of baked ziti. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a larger slow cooker if needed.

With its rich layers of cheesy goodness and hearty pasta, this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, this easy-to-make dish is a winner every time. Plus, with the convenience of the slow cooker, you can enjoy the flavors of homemade baked ziti with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness of classic Italian comfort food in every bite!