Enjoy a rich and cheesy baked ziti with minimal effort! This crockpot version delivers all the flavors of the classic dish while freeing up your oven.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 box (16 oz) uncooked ziti pasta
- 2 cups water
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and marinara sauce.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix until smooth.
- Lightly grease the inside of a crockpot with non-stick spray.
- Layer 1/3 of the marinara-meat sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Pour the water evenly over the top to help cook the pasta.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and allow it to melt.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Total Time: Up to 5 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving (approx.)
Servings: 6 servings
This crockpot baked ziti is an easy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends!