Easy Crockpot Baked Ziti Recipe

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s an easy, hands-off way to enjoy a classic pasta bake.
• Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd with minimal cleanup.
• Customize it to suit your taste—swap in different cheeses, add veggies, or even some spice.
• Budget-friendly with pantry-staple ingredients.

### Ingredients Breakdown

• Ziti Pasta: Use uncooked ziti or penne. No pre-boiling needed!
• Marinara Sauce: Go with your favorite store-bought jar or use homemade marinara if you’ve got the time.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and dreamy, ricotta creates that traditional baked ziti texture. Cottage cheese can be subbed if needed.
• Shredded Mozzarella: For that gooey, cheesy pull we all crave.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory depth and a nutty flavor.
• Ground Meat (optional): Ground beef or Italian sausage makes this heartier, but veg-heads can skip or substitute.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to amp up the flavor.

Pro Tips:

• Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor—this is the backbone of your dish.
• For a vegetarian version, load up on veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini instead of meat.

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Meat (Optional): If using ground beef or sausage, brown it in a skillet with a small drizzle of olive oil until cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, and your seasonings (garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper). Stir until well combined.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Grab your crockpot and start layering! Begin with a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Next, add a layer of uncooked ziti, followed by some of the cheese mixture, cooked meat (if using), and more marinara. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of sauce on top.
4. Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Check the pasta at the minimum time setting to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
5. Add the Final Cheese Layer: In the last 10–15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top, cover, and let it melt.

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• If you’re short on time, you can assemble everything the night before and store the crockpot insert in the fridge. Just pop it into the base in the morning and start cooking!
• Be sure not to overfill your crockpot. Leave about an inch at the top to account for bubbling sauce.
• For an added burst of freshness, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top before serving.

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and layer in roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a hearty, veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to turn up the heat.
• Serving Ideas: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food meal. Don’t forget a glass of red wine!

### FAQs

• Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Let the baked ziti cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• How do I avoid mushy pasta? Don’t cook it too long! Check the pasta early to ensure it’s tender but still holds its shape.
• Is it okay to use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough for slow cooking—some gluten-free pastas may become overly soft.

Get ready to savor the easiest, cheesiest baked ziti you’ve ever made! Don’t forget to share your results with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!