Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

This comforting Slow Cooker Baked Ziti delivers all the classic Italian-American flavors of traditional baked ziti with minimal effort, perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian-American

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef 80/20 lean (or Italian sausage)
• 1 large onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Ziti

• 1 lb ziti pasta uncooked

For the Cheese Mixture

• 15 oz ricotta cheese whole milk preferred
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Layering and Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided

Equipment

• 6-quart (or larger) Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Medium Mixing Bowl

Method

 

Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat thoroughly.
2. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, sugar (if using), 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Assemble in Slow Cooker

1. Spray the inside of a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Spread about 1/3 of the prepared meat sauce evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Layer with half of the uncooked ziti pasta, spreading it out as much as possible.
4. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, spreading gently with the back of a spoon.
5. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers: add another 1/3 of the meat sauce, then the remaining half of the uncooked ziti pasta, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, and another 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella.
7. Top with the remaining meat sauce. Do not stir the layers once assembled.

Cook and Serve

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbly. Cooking times can vary by slow cooker, so check pasta for desired doneness.
2. During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, carefully remove the lid and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the ziti. Re-cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Let the slow cooker baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and make it easier to scoop. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Ensure the pasta is submerged in enough liquid; if your sauce seems very thick, you can add another 1/4 to 1/2 cup of broth or water before cooking.
Slow cooker sizes and models vary, so adjust cooking times as needed. The pasta should be tender but not mushy.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Pro Tips for Making This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

When it comes to creating the most delectable Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, I’ve picked up a few little secrets over the years that truly make all the difference. Think of these as a warm hug from my kitchen to yours, ensuring every forkful is pure joy.

My Secret Trick: I always brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. This extra step develops a deeper, richer flavor that truly elevates the entire sauce, making your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti incredibly robust and satisfying.

Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. A little extra pinch of Italian seasoning or a touch more sugar can balance the flavors perfectly, especially in that gorgeous meat sauce. Trust your palate; it’s your best guide!

Resist the urge to peek! Keeping the slow cooker lid on allows the heat to build consistently, ensuring your ziti cooks perfectly and the cheeses melt into that glorious, gooey layer we all adore. Patience truly pays off with this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.

If you like a slightly firmer pasta, you can undercook the ziti by a minute or two before adding it to the slow cooker. It will finish cooking perfectly in the sauce without becoming mushy, leaving you with that ideal al dente bite.

Fun Variations for Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

One of the most delightful things about home cooking is the freedom to get a little creative and make a recipe truly your own. This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a wonderful canvas for your culinary imagination! My sister, for instance, adores a touch of heat, so here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Veggie Boost

Stir in some finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with your onions and garlic. They’ll soften beautifully and add extra nutrients and flavor to your baked ziti. My friend, who is a big fan of hidden veggies, always adds a handful of spinach at the very end for a lovely green touch.

A Touch of Spice

If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while it simmers. It adds a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming it. It’s a wonderful way to awaken your palate!

Cheesy Delights

Experiment with different cheeses! While ricotta and mozzarella are classics, you could layer in some provolone for a sharper flavor, or even a sprinkle of smoked gouda for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless for making this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti extra cheesy.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

This hearty Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a complete meal in itself, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can truly elevate the experience and make it feel like a special gathering. I always love thinking about how to round out a comforting dish.

A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always my go-to. The fresh, tangy greens offer a wonderful contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta, making each bite even more satisfying. It’s a refreshing balance to the warmth of the Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.

Warm, crusty garlic bread is practically mandatory! Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious tomato sauce, it’s a classic pairing that never disappoints. My mom always insisted on having a good loaf on the table.

For a sweet finish, a light and fruity dessert, like fresh berries or a simple fruit salad, would be lovely. Or, for a truly Italian-inspired meal, a scoop of vanilla bean gelato is pure perfection.

How to Store Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Knowing how to properly store your culinary creations means enjoying them for days to come, and this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is no exception! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or those wonderful nights when you just don’t feel like cooking.

Fridge Storage

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover Slow Cooker Baked Ziti to airtight containers. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I like to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ziti before sealing the container to help keep it moist.

Freezer Tips

For longer storage, this dish freezes like a dream! Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating Methods

To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual servings, or for larger portions, cover it with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. A splash of extra beef broth or water can help keep it from drying out. My personal tip? A fresh sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of fresh parsley after reheating always brings it back to life!

Nutritional Benefits

While we cherish the indulgent flavors of this dish, it’s also worth noting the wholesome goodness packed into every serving of Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. With protein from the ground beef and cheeses, along with vitamins from the tomatoes and fresh herbs, it’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing, embodying my philosophy of delicious food made with simple ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat sauce and ricotta mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and cook your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti in the slow cooker when you’re ready.

Can I use a different type of pasta for Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?

Yes, while ziti is traditional, penne or rigatoni would also work beautifully. Just ensure it’s a sturdy pasta that can hold up to the slow cooking process for this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.

Why is my Slow Cooker Baked Ziti watery?

This can happen if too much moisture is released from the ingredients or if the lid is lifted frequently. Ensure your sauce is thick enough before assembling, and resist peeking to keep the steam trapped.

Can I make this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti vegetarian?

Certainly! Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You could also use a plant-based ground “meat” substitute for a delicious vegetarian Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.

Conclusion

And there you have it, my friends – a delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Baked Ziti that truly embodies everything I love about homemade meals. It’s a dish that promises rich flavors, comforting warmth, and the kind of easy preparation that frees you up to enjoy those precious moments around the table. So gather your loved ones, sprinkle in a little extra love, and let this wonderful Slow Cooker Baked Ziti create sweet, savory memories in your home. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!