Description
This Crockpot Baked Ziti recipe is the ultimate comfort food made effortless with slow cooking. Tender ziti pasta mixed with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a blend of Italian herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a gooey, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 ounces Ziti pasta
- 24 ounces Marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 15 ounces Ricotta cheese (can be substituted with cottage cheese)
- 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all ingredients and prepare your crockpot by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Preheat Crockpot: Set your crockpot to the low setting to warm up while you prepare the pasta mixture.
- Cook Pasta: Boil water and cook the ziti pasta for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Layer in Crockpot: Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased crockpot. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top for a cheesy crust.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden topping and the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the baked ziti to add color and freshness.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta before layering; it will continue to cook in the crockpot.
- Using fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
- You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese if preferred.
- For a thicker sauce, drain excess liquid from marinara before mixing.
- If short on time, cooking on high for 2-3 hours is possible but low and slow yields better texture.
