Slow Cooker Baked Ziti (Printable version)

A comforting dish with tender ziti, rich sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cooked slowly for rich flavors.

# What you need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 lb uncooked ziti or penne pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 28 fl oz marinara or pasta sauce

→ Cheeses

03 - 15 oz ricotta cheese
04 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Water

06 - 2 cups water

# How to Make It:

01 - Lightly grease the interior of a large slow cooker with nonstick spray or olive oil.
02 - Place half of the uncooked pasta evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker, then spoon half of the marinara sauce over it.
03 - Dollop and gently spread half of the ricotta cheese over the sauce, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
04 - Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, marinara, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
05 - Pour the water evenly over the layered ingredients.
06 - Cover and cook on low heat for 3 hours until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
07 - Turn off the slow cooker and allow the dish to rest uncovered for 10 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Minimal prep and hands-off cooking make this an easy weeknight dinner.
  • Rich, cheesy, and satisfying for the whole family.
02 -
  • Check pasta sauce and cheese labels if you need a vegetarian or gluten-free adaptation.
  • This dish contains wheat and milk allergens; always verify package information for sensitivities.
03 -
  • Be sure to layer ingredients evenly for best texture throughout.
  • Let the dish rest before serving so excess moisture is absorbed and slices hold together.
Return