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Delicious slow cooker baked ziti topped with cheese and herbs

Crock Pot Baked Ziti

A delightful and comforting baked ziti dish featuring creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and hearty marinara sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends with family.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Filling
  • 32 oz ricotta cheese Creamy and rich in flavor
  • 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients beautifully
  • 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon basil Adding an aromatic touch
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper Provides a hint of warmth
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan Plus more for topping, brings a sharp, nutty flavor
Base and Pasta
  • 48 oz marinara sauce Providing a tangy and comforting base
  • 12 oz gluten-free penne Allowing everyone to enjoy this dish without worries
Toppings
  • 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese Offering that beautiful cheesy pull

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by spraying the entire slow cooker insert with non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese with the two eggs, 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper.
Assembly
  1. Cover the bottom of the slow cooker with a generous layer of marinara sauce.
  2. Place the gluten-free penne on top of the sauce.
  3. Take 5 scoops of the ricotta mixture and carefully drop them onto the pasta.
  4. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
  5. Repeat the layering process two more times.
  6. End with a final layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cooking
  1. Set your slow cooker to high and cook for 2 ½ hours.
Serving
  1. Let the ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve hot, topped with additional grated parmesan cheese.

Notes

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the ricotta mixture for an added nutritional boost. Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.