Crockpot Baked Ziti

Crockpot Baked Ziti brings all the cheesy, comforting goodness of the classic baked pasta dish into an easy, no-fuss slow cooker meal. With layers of pasta, marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Pair it with garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless: Let the slow cooker do all the work.
• Rich and Cheesy: Layers of gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and flavorful Parmesan.
• Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will love, from kids to adults.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prep the Crockpot

• Spray the inside of the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Layer the Ingredients

• Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the crockpot.
• Add half of the uncooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, and then half of the shredded mozzarella.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta, and mozzarella.

3. Add the Toppings

• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

4. Cook

• Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve hot alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3–4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Protein Additions: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken between the layers.
• Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or use provolone instead of mozzarella.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use penne instead of ziti?

Yes, penne or any similarly shaped pasta works well in this recipe.

2. Do I need to cook the pasta before adding it to the crockpot?

No, the uncooked pasta will cook perfectly in the sauce as it simmers in the slow cooker.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers in the crockpot, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Cook as directed when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade sauce for the best flavor.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger crockpot and increase the cooking time slightly.

6. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook on low and avoid overcooking. Check the pasta after 3 hours for doneness.

7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh basil or oregano adds a great flavor boost. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

8. Can I add cheese at the end instead of layering?

Yes, reserve some mozzarella and Parmesan to sprinkle on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy finish.

9. Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and confirm the marinara sauce is gluten-free for a safe version.

10. What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, delivering all the flavors of traditional baked ziti with minimal effort. With its cheesy layers and rich marinara sauce, it’s a dish your family will ask for again and again. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you crave something hearty and delicious try it today!

Print