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Slow Cooker Baked Ziti


  • Author: Teprod
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that combines gooey mozzarella, rich marinara sauce, and hearty pasta, all simmered to perfection in one pot. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with loved ones.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
  2. Mix in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; combine well.
  3. In a bowl, blend ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella.
  4. Layer ingredients in the slow cooker: start with marinara, followed by ziti, meat mixture, and cheese blend. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  5. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  6. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, omit meat and add veggies like mushrooms or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the microwave or slow cooker.