Imagine arriving home to the irresistible aroma of zesty marinara mingling with tender pasta and bubbling mozzarella… This slow cooker baked ziti brings together hearty Italian turkey sausage and sweet onions in a rich tomato bath. Layers of creamy ricotta, Parmesan, and a crack of garlic voluptuously coat every zigzag of ziti, while a golden, cheesy crown melts to perfection. Dump, stir, and let your crockpot work its magic for a stress-free weeknight feast. Serve garnished with fresh basil for a bright finish. Cozy, playful, and indulgent, it’s comfort food turned effortless. Indulge in every forkful and let this cheesy delight become your new go-to.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup.
- Rich, cheesy layers that satisfy every craving.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Comfort food that warms the heart and soul.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 150 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 165 minutes |
| Dietary | Contains dairy |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | Hot and cheesy with fresh basil! |
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients to make the ultimate Slow Cooker Baked Ziti!
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage – for a flavorful base
- 1 cup diced onion – about ½ an onion, adds sweetness
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce – essential for that classic flavor
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes – adds texture and freshness
- 1 lb ziti pasta – the perfect pasta choice
- 15 oz ricotta cheese – for creaminess
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – divided for layering and topping
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese – adds a delicious salty flavor
- 1 large egg – helps bind the ricotta mixture
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – for aromatic flavor
- 1 tsp garlic powder – to enhance taste
- ½ tsp salt – for seasoning
- ¼ tsp ground pepper – adds a little kick
- Fresh chopped basil – optional for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Prepare for a cheesy adventure! This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and cooks for 2.5 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low. Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting meal!
Step 1: Spray and Preheat
Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray and preheat if possible.
Step 2: Cook Sausage and Onion
In a frying pan over medium heat, cook Italian sausage and onion until sausage is browned and onions are tender, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer sausage and onion to the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and uncooked ziti; stir to combine.
Step 4: Make Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Fold in Ricotta
Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta and sauce, ensuring noodles are coated. Top with remaining 2 cups mozzarella.
Step 6: Cook
Cook on High for 2.5 hours or Low for 4–5 hours, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
- Opt for whole wheat ziti for added nutrition.
- Mix in some sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and texture.
- Layer the cheese for a gooey, melty experience.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after cooking for easier serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
How to Serve this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a classic touch.
- Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color.
- Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti for later enjoyment:
Storing Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
- Cool the dish completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Add a splash of marinara sauce if it seems dry.
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray and preheat if possible.
- Step 2: In a frying pan over medium heat, cook Italian sausage and onion until sausage is browned and onions are tender, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Transfer sausage and onion to the slow cooker. Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and uncooked ziti; stir to combine.
- Step 4: In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 5: Gently fold the ricotta mixture into the pasta and sauce, ensuring noodles are coated. Top with remaining 2 cups mozzarella.
- Step 6: Cook on High for 2.5 hours or Low for 4–5 hours, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted.
- Step 7: Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 35g |
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?
Absolutely! You can substitute ziti with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape you choose, so check for doneness as you approach the end of the cooking time.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti vegetarian by omitting the Italian sausage and replacing it with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add some extra cheese for added flavor and texture!
3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover Slow Cooker Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance! You can cook the sausage and onion, mix the ricotta filling, and layer everything in the slow cooker the night before. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. In the morning, you can set it to cook, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready by dinner time!
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a warm hug in a bowl! With its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, this dish is perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. It’s so easy to whip up, and the satisfaction of a delicious meal is truly rewarding. Dive in, savor every bite, and enjoy the smiles around the table!