There’s something incredibly comforting about coming home to the smell of pasta bubbling away in the slow cooker. When I think of cozy dinners, my mind instantly drifts to Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. It’s one of those meals that transports me right back to my childhood—gathered around the kitchen table with my family, laughter filling the air as we dug into a gooey, cheesy pasta dish. Yes, my friends, this is a dish that loves to bring people together!
I remember the first time I made this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. I was juggling work and life, and the thought of spending hours in the kitchen felt daunting. Enter the slow cooker! I tossed everything in and let it do its magic. The anticipation as the house filled with the scent of ziti was pure joy. The minute I lifted the lid to reveal that golden, bubbly pasta, I knew I had found a winner. If you’re searching for something that’s easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for busy days, then this is your go-to recipe!
What’s in Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?
Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! Ziti pasta nests beautifully in a sauce and cheese, creating layers of flavor and texture. You can find it in different brands, but I usually go for Barilla for its consistently good quality.
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is essential for this dish. You can use store-bought for convenience; I’m a fan of Rao’s homemade for its rich flavor, but any favorite brand will do just fine.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy delight gives Baked Ziti its signature richness. I always opt for whole-milk ricotta for a creamier texture, but part-skim works too if you’re watching calories.
mozzarella cheese: Stretchy, gooey, and utterly delicious. When it melts, it creates that irresistible cheesy crust on top. I recommend shredding your own mozzarella—it’s fresher and melts better than pre-shredded packs.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty depth that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs like oregano and basil, this spice blend adds a wonderful aroma and flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: Simple, yet crucial! Proper seasoning can elevate your dish from good to great.
Is Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Good for You?
Well, let’s be real: this isn’t a salad, but it’s made with good ingredients that can make your heart happy!
Pasta: Rich in carbohydrates, ziti provides the fuel you need for the day. Opting for whole-grain pasta can add extra fiber.
Cheeses: While they pack protein, it’s worth noting they can also be high in saturated fats and calories. Balance that out with a side salad!
Marinara Sauce: A source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes. If you go for a brand with no added sugars or preservatives, you’re on the right track!
One thing to keep in mind is portion control. This dish is hearty, so serving it with a side of veggies or a light salad can make for a more balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ziti pasta (serves 6-8)
– 4 cups marinara sauce
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Ziti?
1. Start by cooking the ziti pasta in boiling water until it’s just slightly undercooked—about 2 minutes less than the package instructions state. It will continue cooking in the slow cooker.
2. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the marinara sauce and ricotta cheese until well combined.
3. In your slow cooker, layer half of the pasta mixture. Top with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheeses, finishing with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on the top.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly like a warm hug.
6. Serve it warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Tips and Serving Suggestions
If you want to get a bit adventurous, feel free to throw in some cooked sausage or ground beef for extra protein. You could even sneak in some veggies—zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms work wonders here!
Serving this Baked Ziti straight from the slow cooker not only keeps it warm but also brings that communal feel to your dinner table. Pair it with a simple Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian experience. Trust me, your loved ones will be raving about this dish long after the plates are cleared!
So, there you have it—a cheesy, delightful Slow Cooker Baked Ziti that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your own memories created around this dish. Happy cooking!
