Description
Make dinner effortless with this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti! Packed with layers of rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this hearty dish is a perfect hands-off meal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Produce:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Condiments:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Pasta & Grains:
- 1 lb ziti pasta (uncooked)
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Dairy:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add half of the uncooked ziti pasta in an even layer.
- Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Pour 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce over the cheese and spread evenly.
- Repeat the Layers:
- Add the remaining ziti, ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and finish with the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2–3 hours or low for 4–5 hours, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the baked ziti before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked ground sausage or veggies like spinach or mushrooms between the layers.
- Substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
