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Delicious slow cooker baked ziti served in a cozy dish

Cozy Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

A heartwarming pasta delight, this cozy slow cooker baked ziti is bursting with rich flavors from layered cheeses and tangy marinara, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or cozy nights in.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 7 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauces
  • 1 pound ziti pasta Can be substituted with penne or rigatoni.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Opt for high-quality store-bought or homemade.
  • 2 cups water Keeps the dish moist during cooking.
Cheese and Seasoning
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese For extra creaminess, mix in a hint of cream cheese or add an egg.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Use fresh mozzarella for a softer experience.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In your slow cooker, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Pour in the water and give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
Cooking
  1. Cover your slow cooker and let the ziti cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until everything is hot, melted, and tender.
Serving
  1. Once ready, serve your cozy baked ziti warm, topping it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

This baked ziti can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat by adding a splash of water if needed.