Crockpot Baked Ziti

Crockpot Baked Ziti is a delicious and easy one-pot meal that combines savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and tender ziti pasta, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This slow-cooked dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prepping. With minimal effort and big flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 (16 oz) box ziti pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, marinara sauce, and water. Mix well.
3. In a slow cooker, layer the meat sauce, uncooked ziti pasta, and cheeses.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Meat Options: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a meatless version.
• Cheese Varieties: Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone, ricotta, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer taste.
• Spicy Ziti: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta you have on hand.
2. Can I use frozen ground beef? It’s best to thaw the ground beef before cooking. Cooking frozen beef in the slow cooker can result in uneven cooking.
3. Can I cook this on high heat in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but the texture may be better if cooked on low for a longer period of time.
4. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the crockpot the next day.
5. Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried? It’s best to use dried pasta for this recipe, as it holds up better during slow cooking. Fresh pasta may become too soft.
6. Can I add vegetables to the sauce? Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
7. What can I use if I don’t have marinara sauce? You can substitute marinara sauce with any tomato-based pasta sauce, or even make your own sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
8. Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of the crockpot? Yes, you can bake the ziti in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, covering it with foil to keep the pasta moist.
9. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
10. How do I make this dish more saucy? Add an extra 1/2 cup of marinara sauce or water to the recipe if you prefer a more saucy consistency.

Conclusion

Crockpot Baked Ziti is a simple, delicious, and comforting dish that requires little effort and yields big flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping for a weekend gathering, this slow cooker recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup!

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