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 first made this slow cooker baked ziti on a busy weeknight when I needed something hearty and satisfying for my family but had little energy for complicated prep. The smell of cheese and sauce as it cooked was absolutely inviting.
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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) ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese: 225 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Water: 470 ml (2 cups) water
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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 the layers with the remaining pasta sauce ricotta mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Add 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 This baked ziti quickly became a family favorite for potlucks and cozy weekends especially since everyone can personalize their bowl with fresh herbs or a side of warm garlic bread.
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Required Tools
Slow cooker (5 quart or 6 quart) measuring cups and spoons large spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (pasta) Milk (ricotta mozzarella Parmesan). Always check all labels for potential allergens or cross-contamination risks.
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 420 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 20 g
Save 
Enjoy this easy slow cooker baked ziti for busy nights and comforting family dinners. The cheesy goodness and minimal prep make it a regular weeknight win.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Yes, penne works well as it holds sauce similarly and cooks evenly in the slow cooker.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Lightly greasing the slow cooker before layering and adding enough water helps keep the pasta from sticking.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the layers a few hours before cooking and refrigerate, then cook when ready.
- → What cheese substitutions can I make?
Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan adds richness.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables?
Yes, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be layered in for extra flavor and nutrition.
