Slow Cooker Baked Ziti (Printable Version)

A comforting baked ziti casserole slow-cooked for tender pasta and melted cheese, perfect for busy nights.

# What You Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 lb uncooked ziti or penne pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce

→ Cheese

03 - 2 cups ricotta cheese
04 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

# How To Make:

01 - Lightly grease the interior of the slow cooker with nonstick spray.
02 - Pour half of the uncooked pasta into the slow cooker, then spread half of the marinara sauce over it.
03 - Dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly on top of the sauce layer.
04 - Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the ricotta.
05 - Repeat layering with the remaining pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
06 - Cover and cook on LOW setting for 3 hours, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
07 - Turn off the slow cooker and allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

# Cooking Tips:

01 -
  • Requires only five simple ingredients for a fuss-free meal.
  • Slow cooker method frees up your time for other tasks.
  • Rich layers of cheese and marinara create a satisfying, comforting dish.
  • Vegetarian-friendly when using suitable marinara and cheeses.
  • Feeds a crowd with 6 hearty servings.
02 -
  • Lightly greasing the slow cooker prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Layer ingredients evenly to ensure consistent cooking and cheese distribution.
  • Letting the dish rest after cooking helps the flavors meld and the pasta set, making it easier to serve.
  • Use a 5–6 quart slow cooker for ample cooking space and even heat distribution.
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