Easy Crockpot Ziti

Need a cozy meal without much fuss? This Crockpot Baked Ziti hits the spot. The dish layers up gooey mozzarella, smooth ricotta, and tasty marinara sauce for a hearty pasta dinner that's great when your schedule's packed.

What You'll Need

• Uncooked Ziti Pasta: These hollow tubes stand up to slow cooking and soak up all the sauce flavors.
• Marinara Sauce: Forms the tomato foundation that brings this whole dish together.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds silky, luxurious layers between pasta for an extra special bite.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Gives that stretchy, melty goodness you want in every forkful.
• Grated Parmesan: Brings a sharp, salty kick that works magic with the other cheeses.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a punch of flavor that boosts the whole Italian vibe.
• Italian Seasoning: This herb mix takes your sauce from good to amazing with classic flavors.
• Parsley: Sprinkle on top for a pop of green and fresh taste.

How To Make It

Step 1:

Coat your Crockpot with cooking spray so nothing sticks. Pour 1 cup of marinara across the bottom in an even layer.

Step 2:

Add half your uncooked ziti on top of the sauce. Drop spoonfuls of half the ricotta and scatter half the mozzarella over this pasta layer.

Step 3:

Make another set of layers with your leftover ziti, ricotta, and mozzarella, keeping things even throughout.

Step 4:

Pour what's left of your marinara over everything. Dust the top with Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for extra taste.

Step 5:

Put the lid on your Crockpot and let it cook on low for 3-4 hours until you can easily bite through the pasta and all that cheese has turned wonderfully gooey.

Step 6:

Before bringing it to the table, throw some fresh parsley on top for a nice finishing touch.

How To Serve & Store

Dish it up while it's steaming hot with parsley scattered on top. A side of garlic bread and some fresh salad rounds out this Italian-inspired feast. Got leftovers? They'll keep in a sealed container in your fridge for about 3 days. When you're ready to eat them again, warm slowly in the microwave or on the stove, and maybe add a splash more marinara if the pasta looks dry.

Quick Tips

Want a crispy top? Just scoop everything into an oven-safe dish and stick it under the broiler for a minute or two. Looking to pack in more protein? Toss in some cooked Italian sausage or browned ground beef between your pasta layers. Don't be afraid to switch up the cheeses - try some provolone or Fontina for a fun twist on the usual.

Pro Chef Advice

Lidia Bastianich says don't skimp on your marinara sauce - quality really matters here. Giada De Laurentiis loves throwing in some fresh basil leaves for that true Italian flavor. Mario Batali always lets the ziti sit for a few minutes after it's done cooking so all those tasty elements can mingle together.

What Makes This So Good

This no-fuss dish packs all the yummy flavors of traditional baked ziti without heating up your oven. As it cooks slowly, the pasta soaks up all that marinara goodness, making each mouthful super saucy. It's a crowd-pleaser that fills you up and warms your soul.

Mix It Up

Want something spicier? Just sprinkle in some red pepper flakes between layers. Trying to eat better? Go for whole wheat or gluten-free ziti instead. You can even sneak in some fresh spinach or kale between layers for extra veggies and nutrients.