Save to Pinterest 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 discovered this method when looking for a hands-off pasta dinner that didn't require boiling noodles or fussing over the stove. This slow cooker baked ziti has been a favorite ever since because it's so simple and results in perfectly cooked, flavorful pasta every time.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) uncooked ziti or penne pasta
- Sauce: 800 ml (about 28 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- Cheeses: 375 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese, 225 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella 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 a little olive oil.
- Layer Ingredients First Round:
- Pour half of the uncooked ziti into the bottom of the slow cooker, then spoon half of the marinara sauce evenly over the pasta. Dollop and gently spread half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Layer Ingredients Second Round:
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Add Water:
- Pour the water evenly over the entire mixture.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest & Serve:
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the ziti rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Whenever I prepare this ziti for family gatherings, everyone gathers around the slow cooker, eager for bowls of cheesy goodness. It's become our go-to comfort meal on chilly evenings, and leftovers are always fought over the next day.
Pairings & Serving Ideas
Serve with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a classic Italian-American dinner. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of roasted vegetables complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
Make It Your Own
Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables between the layers for extra flavor and protein. Fresh basil or parsley stirred in just before serving adds brightness and richness to the dish.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has approximately 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 54 g carbohydrates, and 20 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This slow cooker ziti is the easiest way to enjoy a delicious homemade pasta bake with minimal effort. All that's left is to dig in and savor every cheesy, comforting bite.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the pasta from sticking in the slow cooker?
Lightly grease the slow cooker before layering ingredients and ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce and water to avoid sticking.
- → Can I use other pasta shapes instead of ziti?
Yes, penne or other tubular pastas work well as they hold the sauce and cheese nicely during slow cooking.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely, swapping regular pasta for gluten-free varieties keeps it accessible without compromising texture.
- → What cheeses blend best for this dish?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers a creamy, melty, and flavorful cheese profile ideal for slow baking.
- → How long should the baked ziti rest after slow cooking?
Allow the dish to sit uncovered for about 10 minutes after cooking to let it set and enhance flavor melding.