Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Make a delicious Crock Pot Baked Ziti that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings! This comforting dish is not only cheesy and gooey but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its layers of pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella make it a standout dish that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply mix ingredients and let the crock pot do the work.
• Cheesy Goodness: Indulge in layers of creamy ricotta and stringy mozzarella.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: A surefire hit with children and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it earlier in the day; come home to a warm, satisfying meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Non-stick spray

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your ziti is perfectly cooked without constant supervision.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients efficiently before layering them in the slow cooker.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Help achieve accurate ingredient proportions for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Make this easy classic comfort food in your Crock Pot! Cheesy, Gooey and Delicious in every bite.

For the Cheese Mixture

• 32 oz ricotta
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan (plus more for topping)

For Assembly

• 48 oz marinara sauce (2 jars (24 oz jars))
• 12 oz gluten free penne
• 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Step 1: Prepare Your Slow Cooker

• Spray the entire slow cooker insert with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the ricotta with two eggs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Layer with Marinara Sauce

• Cover the bottom of your slow cooker with a layer of marinara sauce.

Step 4: Add Pasta

• Layer gluten-free penne on top of the sauce evenly.

Step 5: Add Ricotta Mixture

• Take five scoops of the ricotta mixture and drop them onto the pasta layer.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella

• Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

• Repeat steps 3 through 6 two more times until all ingredients are used up.

Step 8: Finish with Sauce and Cheese

• End with a final layer of marinara sauce followed by a generous topping of mozzarella and extra parmesan cheese.

Step 9: Cook

• Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 hours or until heated through and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve

• Serve hot with additional grated parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious homemade Crock Pot Baked Ziti!

How to Serve Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Crock Pot Baked Ziti is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate this cheesy goodness.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Homemade or store-bought garlic bread complements the richness of the ziti perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and flavor contrast.

Tossed Green Salad

• A simple tossed salad with fresh greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty pasta dish.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal while keeping it light.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Serving extra parmesan cheese on the side allows guests to customize their dish with an added layer of flavor.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top before serving adds an aromatic touch and enhances the Italian flair of the meal.

Side of Marinara Sauce

• Offering additional marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling brings more moisture and flavor depth to each bite of ziti.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Baked Ziti

To ensure your Crock Pot Baked Ziti turns out delicious every time, consider these handy tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh cheeses and quality marinara sauce makes a significant difference in flavor.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Alternate layers evenly between pasta, sauce, and cheese for consistent taste throughout the dish.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there’s enough space in the slow cooker for even cooking; do not pack ingredients too tightly.
• Cook on Low for Best Results: For a creamier texture, try cooking on low heat for 3-4 hours instead of high.
• Let It Rest: Allow the baked ziti to sit for 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps it set up nicely for easier slicing.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Consider mixing different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for an exciting twist on flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Crock Pot Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic salad featuring crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing brings crunch and zest.
2. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a vibrant appetizer that complements Italian flavors beautifully.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese provide an elegant bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
4. Caprese Salad Skewers
   Skewers made with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side option.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, marinated vegetables, cheeses, and cured meats creates a flavorful spread that pairs well with baked ziti.
6. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can serve as a low-carb alternative that balances out the rich ziti while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crock Pot Baked Ziti, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping non-stick spray: Not spraying the slow cooker insert can lead to sticking, making cleanup difficult. Always coat the insert with non-stick spray before starting.
• Overcrowding the layers: Adding too much pasta or cheese can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended quantities for perfect layers.
• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold ricotta or cheese can affect melted texture. Allow these ingredients to reach room temperature for better results.
• Not checking for doneness: Cooking times can vary by slow cooker model. Use a fork to check if the pasta is tender before serving.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Follow proper storage methods to keep leftovers fresh.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crock Pot Baked Ziti

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• To maintain quality, wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Reheating Crock Pot Baked Ziti

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Crock Pot Baked Ziti Different?

Crock Pot Baked Ziti is unique due to its slow-cooked flavors and creamy texture achieved by layering ingredients instead of baking them in an oven.

Can I Customize My Crock Pot Baked Ziti?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or even include different protein options like chicken or turkey for variety.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Crock Pot Baked Ziti?

Cooking typically takes about 2½ hours on high heat in your slow cooker. Always check for doneness before serving.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free penne pasta as specified in the recipe for a delicious gluten-free option.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Baked Ziti is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this comforting meal any night of the week!