Baked Ziti Crockpot Recipe: Better Than the Oven, 10x Easier!
If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that practically cooks itself, this slow cooker baked ziti is just what you need. With layers of ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a classic Italian-American dish that brings everyone to the table. The best part? You can set and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout your day.
Imagine coming home to the inviting aroma of simmering pasta and sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether adding some ground meat, veggies, or extra herbs for a flavor boost.
This baked ziti is not only easy to prepare but also wonderfully filling and comforting. The rich marinara sauce envelops the pasta and cheese, creating a deliciously indulgent dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults.
Cozy Kitchen Vibes
The scene is set in a warm and inviting kitchen, where the comforting aroma of baked ziti fills the air. The rustic wooden table is adorned with a hearty serving of baked ziti, its melted cheese gooey and bubbling over the edges. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that beckons you to gather with loved ones.
In the background, a glass of red wine stands ready, complementing the rich flavors of the dish. Soft lighting enhances the cozy ambiance, making it a perfect setting for a relaxed dinner. It’s an atmosphere that brings people together, where laughter and conversation flow as freely as the wine.
A Classic Italian Comfort Dish
Baked ziti is a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine, known for its layers of pasta, savory marinara sauce, and melty cheese. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that can warm anyone’s heart. This dish is often associated with family gatherings and potluck dinners, making it a timeless choice for feeding a crowd.
The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity. It combines everyday ingredients into a satisfying meal that appeals to kids and adults. The addition of fresh basil not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness, making each serving look as delightful as it tastes.
Ease of Preparation
One of the most appealing aspects of baked ziti is its straightforward preparation, especially when utilizing a slow cooker. The process starts with cooking the ziti pasta until it’s just al dente, ensuring it holds its shape during the slow cooking process. This allows the pasta to soak up the flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy.
Mixing together the marinara sauce with ricotta cheese and Italian seasoning creates a rich and flavorful base. Layering this mixture with the pasta and mozzarella in the slow cooker transforms the dish into a hearty meal that can be left to cook while you go about your day.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, baked ziti fits the bill. It’s the kind of meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. With its filling nature, this dish is ideal for serving at family dinners and get-togethers or even as a comforting option during a cozy night.
The versatility of baked ziti also allows for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins, allowing everyone to enjoy a meal tailored to their tastes. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe, no matter the occasion.
Nourishing and Satisfying
Not only does baked ziti please the palate, but it also provides a nourishing option. You can satisfy hunger while enjoying a rich dish with a balanced combination of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the cheese, and vitamins from any added veggies.
This hearty meal provides plenty of servings, making it perfect for families or gatherings. Each plateful is a comforting reminder that good food brings comfort and joy. The bubbling cheese and savory sauce create a dish that fills the stomach and warms the soul.
Conclusion: A Dish to Remember
In the end, baked ziti is more than just a meal; it celebrates flavors and togetherness. The inviting kitchen atmosphere, paired with the heartiness of the dish, creates an experience that lingers long after the last bite. It’s a recipe that encourages sharing, laughter, and the joy of good company.
So, as you gather around that rustic table with a glass of red wine in hand, let the warmth of baked ziti remind you of the simple pleasures in life, where food and family go hand in hand.
Delicious and Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
This slow cooker baked ziti features tender pasta mixed with a savory marinara sauce blended with ricotta and mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings the taste of Italy right into your home, making it ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups water or broth for cooking
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Layer the Ingredients: Add a layer of the sauce mixture in the slow cooker, then half of the cooked ziti. Top with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce on top and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add Liquid: Pour the water or broth around the edges of the slow cooker to help with cooking.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta is cooked through. For a golden top, uncover it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
