Crockpot Baked Ziti

This Crockpot Baked Ziti features cheesy pasta with a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy meal, it’s a simple recipe that blends hearty, savory flavors into a nutritious dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a flavorful, hearty meal option that transforms cheesy pasta with a rich tomato sauce into a delightful treat, perfect for a cozy meal. Easy to prepare with slow cooking, it’s packed with protein and taste. Versatile—serve with salad or alone—this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome indulgence.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prevents mushiness during slow cooking.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Adds better melt and flavor.
• Cook on Low: Ensures a creamy texture.
• Stir Occasionally: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Check Doneness: Pasta should be tender but firm.
• Avoid Overfilling: Leaves room for ingredients to blend.
• Serve Warm: Maximizes the cheesy appeal.
• Thicken if Desired: Add cheese if too thin.
• Rest Before Serving: Allows flavors to meld.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak spices to preference.

Yield: 8 servings

Crockpot Baked Ziti

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Cheesy baked ziti, hearty crockpot pasta meal.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 3 cups low-sugar marinara sauce

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
2. Prep the Aromatics: Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the crockpot, layer half the uncooked ziti, cooked beef, onion, and garlic.
4. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour half the marinara sauce over the layer, then dollop with half the ricotta cheese.
5. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining ziti, sauce, and ricotta, ensuring even distribution.
6. Season the Dish: Sprinkle Italian seasoning and salt over the top.
7. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours until pasta is tender.
8. Add Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top during the last 30 minutes.
9. Rest the Casserole: Let it sit for 10 minutes with the lid off to set.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm, savoring this cheesy, hearty delight!

Notes

• Cook pasta al dente for texture; use fresh cheese for melt.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; check seasoning to taste.
• Store leftovers promptly to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve moisture.
• This recipe can be adapted for vegetarian diets with appropriate swaps.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 619Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 82mgSodium 712mgCarbohydrates 87gFiber 1gSugar 78gProtein 27g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Ziti Pasta (12 oz): Uncooked, for base.
• Marinara Sauce (3 cups): Low-sugar, for richness.
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): For creaminess.
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): Shredded, for topping.
• Ground Beef (1 lb): Cooked, for protein.
• Onion (1 medium): Chopped, for aroma.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced, for depth.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): For warmth.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
• Parsley (2 tbsp): Chopped, for garnish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Pasta Swap: Use penne or rigatoni.
• Sauce Swap: Replace with homemade marinara or pesto.
• Cheese Swap: Use cottage cheese or omit ricotta.
• Meat Swap: Use turkey or omit for vegetarian.
• Onion Swap: Use shallots or omit.
• Garlic Swap: Use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
• Spice Swap: Add red pepper flakes or omit seasoning.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce or skip salt based on sauce.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat on stovetop or microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm with a splash of water if needed.

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Until you can read, Crockpot Bacon and Potato Breakfast Casserole