There’s something magical about the aroma of a bubbling baked ziti wafting through the house, isn’t there? Every time I whip up this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti recipe, I can’t help but think back to family gatherings where we’d gather around the table, soft laughter mingling with the delightful smells of home-cooked meals. This dish, with its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, has a way of bringing everyone together. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, which means more time for me to enjoy the company of friends and family rather than stressing over the stove.
Why do I love this recipe? Well, not only is it a comforting hug in a bowl, but it’s also a time-saver! Just toss everything into the slow cooker, let it work its magic, and voila! Dinner is served. And let’s not forget—it’s the kind of meal that tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect choice for leftovers (if there are any, that is!).
What’s in Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?
– Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage): This hearty base brings protein and rich flavor to the dish. I usually go for ground beef, but Italian sausage adds an irresistible zest if you want a bit of a kick.
– Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth. It’s a fundamental player in many of my favorite recipes.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic is where the magic happens—nothing beats its aromatic flavor that fills your kitchen.
– Crushed Tomatoes: The heart of the sauce! I opt for a good quality brand to ensure rich flavor. Using crushed gives it that perfect texture.
– Tomato Sauce and Tomato Paste: These two complement the crushed tomatoes and give the sauce the right consistency—a little tangy and oh-so-smooth!
– Beef Broth (or Water): I like to use low-sodium beef broth for added richness without overwhelming saltiness.
– Dried Oregano and Dried Basil: These classic herbs bring that Italian flair to the dish. Always fresh!
– Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of these adds that slight heat. Feel free to skip if you’re not a fan!
– Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings, yet a must-have for bringing out all the flavors.
– Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! Perfectly shaped for clinging onto all that delicious sauce and cheese. I love using whole wheat pasta for a bit of added nutrition.
– Mozzarella Cheese: The stretchy cheese that makes this dish a comfort food champion! Don’t skimp on this—double up if you dare.
– Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this savory cheese on top for a final touch of flavor.
– Fresh Parsley: A dash of chopped parsley for garnish adds a lovely pop of freshness at the end.
Is Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Good for You?
While this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is undeniably delicious, it can also be a fairly balanced meal!
– Ground Beef: Excellent for protein, but if you’re watching your fat intake, ground turkey or chicken is a fantastic substitute that still offers great flavor.
– Pasta: Ziti provides carbohydrates that fuel your body, but if you’re looking for something lighter, try whole-wheat ziti or a veggie-based pasta instead.
– Cheese: Cute little cheese can be quite calorie-dense, but it packs in calcium and protein! If you’re looking for reduced-fat options, many brands offer a lighter version that still melts beautifully.
Just keep in mind that moderation is key! Enjoy this comfort dish, but maybe save it for weekend gatherings or special occasions. Trust me, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 (8 oz) can tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth (or water)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Servings:** 6-8
How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked meat mixture, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the uncooked ziti pasta to the slow cooker and stir until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and mix well. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Cover the slow cooker again and allow the cheese to melt, about 20-30 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Baked Ziti!
Tips and Tricks to Perfect Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
– For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped bell peppers or spinach to the meat mixture before combining everything in the slow cooker.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the mozzarella for a blend of your favorite cheeses! A mix of cheddar and provolone can add a delightful twist.
– Don’t forget about the power of leftovers! This baked ziti is even more delicious the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for easy reheating.
I encourage you to give this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti a shot. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something cozy, this dish has you covered. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t be shy—share your experience and any changes you made! Happy cooking!
