Save A hearty, comforting pasta dish featuring tender ziti, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted cheese all made effortlessly in the slow cooker with just five simple ingredients.
I first tried making baked ziti in the slow cooker on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how hands-off and delicious the results were. It turned into a family favorite that’s requested regularly for both dinner and gatherings.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) uncooked ziti or penne pasta
- Sauce: 800 ml (about 28 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- Ricotta cheese: 375 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese: 225 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Water: 470 ml (2 cups) water
Instructions
- Prepare slow cooker:
- Lightly grease the inside of a large slow cooker with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- Layer pasta:
- Pour half of the uncooked ziti into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add sauce:
- Spoon half of the marinara sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Ricotta layer:
- Dollop and gently spread half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce.
- Cheese layer:
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat layers:
- Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Add water:
- Pour water evenly over the entire mixture.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve:
- Turn off slow cooker and let the ziti rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes before serving.
Save This slow cooker baked ziti is the centerpiece of our Sunday dinners. My kids love helping layer the ingredients, and it always brings the family together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this ziti with a crisp green salad and fresh garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a bright finish.
Recipe Variations
Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables to boost flavor and protein. For a gluten-free meal, substitute with certified gluten-free pasta.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Save Enjoy a warm and satisfying Italian-inspired dinner with minimal cleanup. This slow cooker baked ziti is sure to become one of your go-to comfort meals!
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, penne or other tubular pasta varieties work well to hold the sauce and cheeses in this dish.
- → How do I prevent the ziti from becoming mushy?
Use uncooked pasta and follow the layering method. The slow cooker time is calibrated for perfectly tender, not overcooked, pasta.
- → Can I add vegetables or meat?
Absolutely; cooked sausage, ground beef, or sautéed vegetables blend nicely and boost flavor and nutrition.
- → Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Yes, substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure sauces and cheeses are gluten-free certified.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool leftovers before refrigerating in an airtight container; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.