Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheeses, all cooked to perfection in a convenient slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, cooked thoroughly
- 2 jars (24 ounces each) of Italian pasta sauce
- 1 pound (16 ounces) box of penne pasta
- 15 ounces Ricotta cheese
- 15 ounces tomato paste
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
- 2 cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking utensils (spoon, spatula)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Drain any excess grease from the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Alternatively, you can use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.
Step 3: Layering the Ingredients
- Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add half of the cooked penne pasta to the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with one jar of pasta sauce and the tomato paste. Mix well.
- Spoon half of the meat sauce mixture over the pasta in the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the Ricotta cheese, eggs, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon half of the Ricotta mixture over the meat sauce layer in the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the Ricotta mixture.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
- Add the remaining penne pasta to the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the remaining meat sauce mixture over the pasta, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the remaining Ricotta mixture over the meat sauce, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the Ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 5: Cook the Ziti
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid 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.
- Avoid stirring during cooking to maintain the layers, but you can gently press down any pasta that might be poking out of the sauce to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the Baked Ziti sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired before serving.
Tips for Success
- Pasta Texture: Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in sauce to cook evenly. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushy pasta.
- Cheese Mixture: Mixing eggs with Ricotta helps bind the layers together and adds creaminess to the dish.
- Slow Cooker Settings: Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s settings. Check pasta tenderness towards the end of cooking.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleasing meal that combines classic Italian flavors with the convenience of a slow cooker. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a comforting pasta dish without the hassle of extensive cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, cheesy Baked Ziti ready to enjoy with minimal effort.
Enjoy your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, and savor the hearty flavors that make it a favorite comfort food dish!
