Introduction
Welcome to our slow cooker baked ziti recipe! If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that requires minimal effort, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a warm and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this slow cooker baked ziti recipe is a must-try. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Additionally, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a rich and flavorful pasta dish.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a meat lover, or have specific dietary restrictions, this recipe can accommodate your needs.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious slow cooker baked ziti:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional ingredient substitutions:
- If you prefer a meatless version, you can omit the ground beef and add mushrooms or spinach instead.
- For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat pasta instead of regular ziti.
- If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect slow cooker baked ziti:
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Combine the ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on low heat: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the flavors are well blended.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Layer the ingredients: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta, followed by half of the slow cooker mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake in the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the ziti in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your slow cooker baked ziti turns out perfectly every time:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the slow cooker mixture.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mix in some ricotta cheese with the cooked ziti pasta.
- To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, be sure to cook it until al dente before layering it with the other ingredients.
- If you’re short on time, you can cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this slow cooker baked ziti recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian version: Skip the ground beef and add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Chicken or sausage: Substitute the ground beef with cooked and shredded chicken or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese lovers: Add an extra layer of cheese in between the ziti and the sauce for a cheesier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Slow cooker baked ziti is a satisfying and filling dish on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with some delicious sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Garlic bread: Serve slices of warm garlic bread on the side for dipping in the ziti sauce.
- Green salad: Pair the baked ziti with a fresh and crisp green salad dressed with your favorite vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, for a balanced meal.
- Red wine: Pair this comforting pasta dish with a glass of your favorite red wine for a cozy and indulgent experience.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker baked ziti:
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Slow cooker baked ziti freezes well. Simply portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the shape and size of the pasta.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious slow cooker baked ziti recipe. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The convenience of the slow cooker combined with the comforting flavors of the ziti make this recipe a winner. So go ahead, give it a try, and let us know how it turns out!
Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Enjoy a comforting and delicious slow cooker baked ziti that requires minimal effort but delivers rich and flavorful pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a warm and hearty meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Combine the ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cook on low heat: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or until the flavors are well blended.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Layer the ingredients: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta, followed by half of the slow cooker mixture. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake in the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the ziti in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
