Introduction
Craving a hearty, comforting pasta dish but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the perfect solution! This recipe combines all the deliciousness of traditional baked ziti with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, you’ll find this dish easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Who This Recipe is For and Why It’s Great
This recipe is perfect for families, busy professionals, and pasta lovers who want a hands-off approach to cooking. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. The ingredients are simple, and the result is a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (16-ounce) box ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)