Classic Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

A comforting and flavorful baked ziti made with layers of pasta, cheese, and a savory meat sauce, slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

1	lb ground beef
1	medium onion, chopped
2	teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
½	teaspoon salt
2	(25 ounce) jars pasta sauce
1	(15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
2	cups mozzarella cheese, divided
1	cup cup grated parmesan cheese
1	(16 ounce) box ziti pasta

Instructions

• 1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and add the pasta sauce. Mix well and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Spoon 2 cups of the meat sauce into the slow cooker. Top with 2 cups of ziti pasta. Dollop half of the cheese mixture over the ziti and spread evenly. Layer with another 2 cups of the meat sauce, the remaining ziti pasta, and the rest of the cheese mixture. Finish with the remaining meat sauce. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
  3. Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours.
  4. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese over the ziti. Let it stand for 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt before serving.

Jul 19, 2024