Slow Cooker Baked Ziti: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This dish combines ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, melty cheese, and savory Italian seasonings to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The best part? You can make it in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.

Ingredients

You will need:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make Slow Cooker Baked Ziti:

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker in the following order: marinara sauce, cooked ziti pasta, cheese mixture, remaining marinara sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Variations

You can customize your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti to suit your preferences by adding in additional ingredients such as:

• Ground beef or Italian sausage for a meaty twist.
• Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti turns out perfectly:

• Don’t overcook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker as it will continue to cook while in the slow cooker.
• For a crispy top, transfer the cooked ziti from the slow cooker to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil in the oven for a few minutes until golden brown.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the marinara sauce before adding it to the slow cooker.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together comforting flavors in an effortless way. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to please. With minimal prep work and hands-off cooking, it’s a convenient option for busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.

FAQs

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?

Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

How long will Slow Cooker Baked Ziti last in the refrigerator?

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti will last for about 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional for Baked Ziti, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the pasta shape.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with your favorite sides and a green salad for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!