If you’re looking for an easy and delicious weeknight meal, this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the perfect recipe. This dish combines rich flavors of pasta, ricotta, and two types of cheese with a meaty, savory sauce — all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. No need to boil the pasta separately, just layer it in the slow cooker and let it do all the work. This recipe is a great way to feed a crowd or make dinner prep simple.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef, cooked thoroughly
- 2 jars of Italian pasta sauce (24 oz each)
- 1 box (16 ounces) penne pasta (uncooked)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 15 ounces tomato paste
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, basil, and 1 cup of the shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended and creamy. This mixture will help create the cheesy layers in your baked ziti.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Start by spreading 1/3 of the pasta sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker. Then layer 1/3 of the uncooked penne pasta over the sauce, followed by half of the cooked ground beef.
Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the beef layer. Repeat the layers: sauce, penne, beef, and ricotta. End with a final layer of sauce, ensuring that all the pasta is covered.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Once your layers are complete, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Cook on Low
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as the pasta can become mushy if left too long.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the ziti is done cooking, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the dish to set. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired. Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes:
- Use Penne Instead of Ziti: This recipe uses penne pasta instead of traditional ziti. However, you can easily substitute ziti if you prefer.
- Don’t Cook the Pasta First: The uncooked pasta will absorb the flavors of the sauce and become perfectly tender in the slow cooker. No need to boil the pasta ahead of time!
- Customize the Meat: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, sausage, or even a vegetarian meat substitute for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
1. Vegetarian Baked Ziti
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in its place. You can also add a layer of marinara sauce for extra flavor.
2. Spicy Baked Ziti
If you enjoy a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.
3. Four-Cheese Baked Ziti
For a richer, cheesier version, add shredded provolone or gouda to the mozzarella and Parmesan. The extra cheese will give the dish a more indulgent, gooey texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, simply set the slow cooker to low and follow the cooking instructions.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Once cooled, portion the baked ziti into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Any short pasta such as rigatoni, rotini, or elbow macaroni will work well in this recipe. Just ensure the pasta is uncooked before layering in the slow cooker.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
A: To avoid mushy pasta, be sure to cook on low for the recommended 4-5 hours and avoid overcooking. If your slow cooker tends to run hot, check the pasta at the 4-hour mark.
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a no-fuss, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender pasta, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, leaving you free to enjoy more time with loved ones. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this baked ziti recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Try it out today and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that’s as easy as it is delicious!
