Why Make This Recipe

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella cheese to create a creamy, flavorful delight. The slow cooker method allows the pasta and sauce to meld together beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, it’s an easy, one-pot meal that reduces cleanup and frees up your time.

How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (or choose turkey or Italian sausage)
1 onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 can diced tomatoes (28 ounces)
1 jar pasta sauce (650 ml, about 2 1/2 cups)
2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or use beef or vegetable broth)
1 box penne or ziti (375 grams, or about 4 cups of short pasta)
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the salt, dried basil, dried parsley, diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
In your slow cooker, layer half of the uncooked penne or ziti. Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once cooked, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the pasta to absorb more of the sauce.

How to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Serve this delicious baked ziti in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and aroma. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can provide a nice finishing touch. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.

How to Store

Leftover Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips to Make

For added depth of flavor, consider adding cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat mixture.
Adjust the spices to your taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a bit of heat.
Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

Variation

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta or spiralized zucchini instead of traditional pasta. You can also swap the mozzarella for ricotta cheese or cottage cheese for a creamier texture. Experiment with different meats or sauces to create your variation of baked ziti.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat sauce and layer the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before. Just cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, cook on low for the recommended time.

Can I use frozen pasta in this recipe?

It’s best to use uncooked, dried pasta instead of frozen. Frozen pasta may not cook evenly in the slow cooker and could become mushy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is perfect for meal prep. Prepare larger batches and portion them out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.