Crock Pot Baked Ziti

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Here’s a great Crock Pot Baked Ziti recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family dinner. This easy slow cooker pasta dish delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness of classic baked ziti—without having to boil the pasta beforehand!

Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (16 oz) box uncooked ziti pasta
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

  • Instructions:

    1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage (or beef) with the diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
    2. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
    3. Layer the Ingredients: In the crock pot, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the uncooked ziti, then dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining sauce. Pour in the water or broth around the edges to help cook the pasta evenly.
    4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender.
    5. Add Cheese & Serve: Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, cover, and let it melt for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, then serve warm!

    6. Tips & Variations:

      • No ricotta? Use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and Parmesan.
      • Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
      • Want extra creaminess? Stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
      • Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat well!

      This Crock Pot Baked Ziti is a set-it-and-forget-it meal that tastes just like the oven-baked classic—without all the hassle. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd! Enjoy! 🍝✨

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