Ingredients
– 1 pound of ziti pasta
– 3 cups marinara sauce
– 15 ounces ricotta cheese
– 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1 pound cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for added flavor
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Crock Pot Baked Ziti:
1. Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking ziti pasta in boiling water for about 4-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Layer Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the crock pot.
4. First Layer: Add half of the cooked ziti over the sauce. Top it with half of the cheese mixture.
5. Second Layer: Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese mixture.
6. Repeat Layers: Add the rest of the ziti, followed by the remaining cheese mixture, and then the last of the marinara sauce.
7. Top with Cheese: Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that gooey finish.
8. Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 hours (or high for 2 hours) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let Rest: Once cooked, allow it to sit for 10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.
10. Serve: Dish out portions and enjoy your Crock Pot Baked Ziti with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 550 kcal (approximate)
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g