crock pot baked ziti recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best crock pot baked ziti recipe

I love this crock pot baked ziti recipe because it gives me all the comfort of a traditional baked pasta without having to turn on the oven. My family absolutely devours it every time I make it. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hot meal waiting for you after a long day.

This recipe is also a great way to get a balanced meal on the table. The pasta provides energy, the cheese adds calcium and protein, and you can easily sneak in some spinach or other veggies. It is a hearty dish that satisfies everyone from picky kids to hungry adults. I like that I can prep it in the morning and come home to a kitchen that smells like Sunday dinner.

Whether it is for a casual family dinner or a potluck with friends, this crock pot baked ziti always gets compliments. It is cheesy, saucy, and has that perfect baked texture even though it is made in a slow cooker. I am so happy to share this recipe with you.

Crock Pot Baked Ziti

4.9 from 1740 votes

This crock pot baked ziti is a hands off version of the classic Italian American dish. It combines pasta, marinara sauce, and three kinds of cheese for a creamy and satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time3 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound ziti pasta, cooked al dente and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
1 (15 ounce) container of ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain it and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, the Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Spread about 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.
4Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, spreading it evenly. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the ricotta layer.
5Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and marinara sauce. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
6Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbly. Do not overcook as the pasta can become mushy.
7Turn off the slow cooker and let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

6 quart or larger slow cooker
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Mixing bowl
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a meatier version, you can add 1 pound of cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce. To keep it vegetarian, use a good quality marinara and add a handful of fresh spinach between the layers.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Baked Ziti Works

This crock pot baked ziti is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy, delicious, and feeds a crowd with minimal effort. It works perfectly for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight dinner. I love that I can set it and forget it, knowing everyone will be happy with the meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Baked Ziti

1. Can I use uncooked pasta in this recipe?

I do not recommend using uncooked pasta for this crock pot baked ziti. The pasta needs to be cooked al dente first because the slow cooker does not get hot enough to properly cook dry pasta in the same time frame. If you use uncooked pasta, it will likely end up undercooked and hard.

2. How do I prevent the ziti from becoming mushy?

The key to avoiding mushy ziti is to cook the pasta to al dente before adding it to the slow cooker. Also, do not cook it on high or for longer than the recipe suggests. Letting it rest for 10 minutes after cooking helps it firm up a bit.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. I often add a cup of fresh spinach or a handful of chopped mushrooms to the layers. You can also add roasted zucchini or bell peppers. Just add them between the layers of pasta and cheese.

4. How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.

5. Can I freeze this crock pot baked ziti?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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