Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Name: Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti pasta; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti recipe! This delightful dish layers pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy families, this hassle-free recipe offers a comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-12T09:36:17.899Z

This Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food.

A Family Favorite

Baked ziti has always been a classic comfort food, loved by both kids and adults alike. It combines simple ingredients into a wholesome dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. With its layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, it's the perfect meal for family gatherings or a quiet weeknight. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual get-together, baked ziti brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth that resonates with everyone.

This Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is designed to make your life easier. By utilizing the slow cooker, you're able to create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just prepare the ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. It’s especially beneficial for busy families seeking wholesome dinner solutions without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the remarkable aspects of this baked ziti recipe is its adaptability for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and portion it out for the week, ensuring you have nourishing meals ready to go. Store individual servings in airtight containers, and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat. It’s a fantastic way to save time and money while ensuring that you’re eating healthily throughout the week.

Additionally, baked ziti freezes well, so don’t hesitate to prepare extra for those inevitable busy days when cooking feels like too much. Assemble the layers, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed in your slow cooker, making it an effortless option for last-minute dinners.

Customizable Ingredients

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to cater to your family’s taste and dietary preferences. Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. The marinara sauce can be replaced with a homemade tomato sauce or your favorite store-bought variety, enabling you to make this dish uniquely yours.

Moreover, if you're looking to add protein, consider mixing in cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shredded chicken. The choice is yours, making this baked ziti not just a delicious dish but also a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Elevating the flavor profile or accommodating dietary restrictions has never been easier!

Ingredients

Baked Ziti Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you start!

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.

Layer the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta, half of the marinara sauce, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella on top.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture for your baked ziti, avoid overcooking the pasta before layering it. Cook it just until al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook in the slow cooker, absorbing flavors from the sauce. This ensures it remains perfectly tender without becoming mushy.

Be generous with your cheese layers! Mozzarella is essential for that delicious, gooey topping, while ricotta adds a creamy richness. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra cheese for an indulgent finish that everyone will love.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Easy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal. The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy pasta, creating a satisfying dining experience.

Garlic bread also makes for the perfect side dish, as it complements the flavors of the marinara sauce. Whether you opt for homemade or store-bought, the buttery, garlicky goodness will make your meal feel complete.

Storage and Reheating

Properly store leftover baked ziti in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh for up to three to five days. If you have a larger portion, you can freeze it for later enjoyment.

To reheat, simply thaw any frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated thoroughly, ensuring that your baked ziti retains its delightful flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with penne or any other short pasta.