Slow Cooker Cheesy Baked Ziti (Printable)

Hearty, cheesy baked ziti made effortlessly with simple ingredients and slow cooker ease.

# Ingredient list:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 lb uncooked ziti or penne pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce

→ Cheeses

03 - 16 oz ricotta cheese
04 - 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Optional

06 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# How to Make It:

01 - Lightly coat the interior of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray.
02 - Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker.
03 - Place half of the uncooked ziti over the sauce. Spoon half of the ricotta cheese onto the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
04 - Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese layer.
05 - Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and finish by spreading the last of the sauce on top.
06 - Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, until the pasta is tender and the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
07 - Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy to make in one pot
  • Hearty and comforting
02 -
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed and check for doneness early
  • Add browned ground beef or cooked mushrooms for a heartier meal
03 -
  • Lightly grease the slow cooker to prevent sticking
  • Let the baked ziti sit before serving for best texture
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