Description
Looking to impress your family or guests with minimal fuss? Look no further than this Crock Pot Baked Ziti recipe, an Italian favorite that marries the convenience of a slow cooker with the rich, comforting flavors of a classic pasta dish. Perfectly meaty, cheesy, and satisfying, this slow-cooked masterpiece is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, cozy weekend dinners, or even potluck gatherings. Here’s how to bring this dish to life in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or ground sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 minced garlic clove or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 (24-ounce) jars pasta sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) jar tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 (16-ounce) box ziti
Instructions
-
Brown the Meat: In a nonstick skillet, brown your choice of ground beef or sausage with the diced onion. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Once browned, add the minced garlic (or garlic powder), Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, pasta sauce, and tomato sauce. Stir well and set aside.
-
Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This blend will add a creamy, rich layer to your baked ziti.
-
Layering: Start by greasing your 6-quart slow cooker. Pour one-third of the meat sauce into the bottom. Follow with one-third of the uncooked ziti pasta. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta. Repeat with another layer of sauce, ziti, and the remaining ricotta mixture. Finish with the remaining ziti and sauce.
-
Cooking: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 hours or on LOW for 4 to 6 hours. It’s crucial not to overcook to avoid soggy pasta. Once done, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top and cover just until the cheese melts beautifully.
Notes
Serving and Storage:
Serve this hearty and delicious Crock Pot Baked Ziti hot, right from the slow cooker, for a meal that’s sure to satisfy all pasta lovers. As for leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days, making this dish a gift that keeps on giving.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Crock Pot Baked Ziti recipe simplifies traditional pasta baking without sacrificing any of the flavors or textures you love. By letting the slow cooker do most of the work, you free up your time without compromising on a delicious, home-cooked meal. The layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheeses meld together to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is tasty, proving once again that the best meals don’t have to be the most complicated. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your culinary repertoire.