Save A hearty comforting pasta dish featuring tender ziti rich tomato sauce creamy ricotta and plenty of melted cheese all made effortlessly in the slow cooker with just five simple ingredients.
I still remember the first time I made this baked ziti in my slow cooker on a busy weekend evening when I wanted something filling but didn't have time to fuss in the kitchen. The enticing aroma of bubbling cheese and tomato sauce had my family gathering around for seconds before it had even finished resting.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) uncooked ziti or penne pasta
- Sauce: 800 ml (about 28 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- Ricotta cheese: 375 g (15 oz)
- Mozzarella cheese: 225 g (2 cups) shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated
- Water: 470 ml (2 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare slow cooker:
- Lightly grease the inside of a large slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little olive oil.
- Layer pasta:
- Pour half of the uncooked ziti into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sauce:
- Spoon half of the marinara sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Add ricotta:
- Dollop and gently spread half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce.
- Add cheeses:
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat layers:
- Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Pour water:
- Pour the water evenly over the entire mixture.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest:
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the ziti rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes before serving.
Save Nothing brings my family together quite like pulling the lid off the slow cooker and watching everyone dig in eagerly to the cheesy pasta warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked ziti with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Customization Ideas
Add cooked ground beef sausage or sautéed vegetables to boost flavor protein and variety or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat and milk be sure to check all packaging labels for any potential risks of cross contamination.
Save This slow cooker baked ziti is sure to become your go to comfort dinner anytime you crave something cheesy and hearty.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in the slow cooker?
Greasing the slow cooker thoroughly and layering sauce between pasta layers helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- → Can I use different types of pasta for this dish?
Yes, penne or other tubular pasta can be substituted for ziti, as they hold sauce and cheese well in slow cooking.
- → Is it necessary to add water to the dish?
The added water helps cook the pasta evenly and keeps the dish moist, avoiding dryness during the slow cooking process.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the slow-cooked pasta?
Incorporate sautéed vegetables, cooked ground meat, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving to boost flavor.
- → What cheese combinations work best in slow cooker baked pasta?
A mix of ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for meltiness, and Parmesan for sharpness creates a balanced, rich cheese profile.