Crockpot Baked Ziti – Easy Cheesy Comfort

Crockpot Baked Ziti is the ultimate easy weeknight comfort food. Tender pasta, rich marinara, and gooey melted cheese come together in a slow cooker for a hands-off, cozy meal. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or family dinners, this dish fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off slow cooker convenience
• Tender pasta with gooey, melty cheese
• Perfect for family dinners or potlucks
• Easily adjustable with favorite vegetables or meats
• Rich, comforting flavors everyone loves

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta (uncooked)
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Spray the crockpot with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In the crockpot, combine uncooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and water/broth. Stir to mix well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until pasta is tender, stirring halfway through if possible.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover and cook an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese melts.
5. Optional: Stir in chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies before serving.
6. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use gluten-free pasta if needed; adjust cooking time slightly
• Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey for a meaty version
• Use part-skim mozzarella for a lighter option
• Stir halfway through cooking for even sauce distribution
• Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crunchy topping (if your crockpot insert is oven-safe)

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through
• Freeze cooled baked ziti in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
• Store cheese separately if making ahead to preserve texture

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• Pair with a simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Offer extra Parmesan or chili flakes on the side
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal
• Pair with sparkling water for a cozy dinner

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook ziti from dry in a crockpot?

Yes. The key is to add enough liquid (water or broth) to allow pasta to cook fully and absorb sauce flavors.

How do I prevent mushy pasta?

Use slightly less liquid than usual and cook on low. Check pasta at 3 hours to avoid overcooking.

Can I add meat or vegetables?

Absolutely. Cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey works well. Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the ingredients in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day, adjusting time slightly for cold ingredients.

Ready to Make It?

Crockpot Baked Ziti is a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and cheesy goodness. Ideal for busy schedules, this dish brings hearty Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort. Save this recipe for a go-to weeknight meal your family will love.

You Might Also Like

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• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Chicken – Easy, tender, and flavorful.
• Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake – Cheesy, family-friendly pasta.

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