Save A comforting, cheesy, and hearty pasta dish made effortlessly in the slow cooker with just five simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
This is one of my go-to recipes when I want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It always brings smiles to the table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) uncooked ziti pasta
- Sauce & Cheese: 680 ml (24 oz) marinara sauce
- Sauce & Cheese: 450 g (2 cups) ricotta cheese
- Sauce & Cheese: 340 g (3 ½ cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Sauce & Cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Step 2:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Step 3:
- Layer half of the uncooked ziti pasta evenly over the sauce.
- Step 4:
- Dollop and gently spread half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan over the ricotta layer.
- Step 6:
- Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese.
- Step 7:
- Repeat the layers: pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and the rest of the sauce.
- Step 8:
- Top with any remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 9:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 10:
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Pin it This dish has been a family favorite for years, often enjoyed on chilly weekends or special gatherings with loved ones.
Notes
For extra flavor add Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni. Add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables between layers for a heartier meal. Serve with a green salad and crusty bread.
Required Tools
Slow cooker (5-6 quart capacity) Measuring cups and spoons Spatula or large spoon
Nutritional Information
Calories 490 Total Fat 20 g Carbohydrates 55 g Protein 22 g
Pin it This baked ziti always brings warmth and comfort to our table no matter the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other pasta types instead of ziti?
Yes, penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes for ziti in this layered dish.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in the slow cooker?
Spray the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray and ensure sauce layers are evenly spread to prevent sticking.
- → Can I add meat or vegetables to the layers?
Adding cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables between layers enhances flavor and heartiness.
- → Is it necessary to let the dish rest after cooking?
Resting for 10 minutes helps the layers set and makes slicing easier before serving.
- → What cheese blend creates the best texture?
A combination of ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan creates a creamy, melty, and flavorful topping.
- → Can I enhance the sauce flavor?
Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce for extra aroma and mild heat.