Description
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting, hands-off Italian-American casserole featuring tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy days, it combines the ease of slow cooker convenience with the classic flavors of baked ziti, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
Seasonings
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 can diced tomatoes with liquid (28 oz or 798 ml)
- 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 4 cups dry penne or ziti pasta (340 g)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and finely chopped onion together until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds flavor and pre-cooks the meat for even cooking in the slow cooker.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the finely minced garlic, salt, dried basil, and dried parsley. Cook for an additional 1 minute to release the aromas and incorporate the flavors.
- Transfer to slow cooker and add liquids: Move the browned beef mixture into a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Add the canned diced tomatoes with their liquid, marinara sauce, and low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Slow cook the sauce: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This slow simmer allows flavors to meld and develop deep richness.
- Add the pasta: Turn the slow cooker temperature to high. Add the uncooked penne or ziti pasta, stirring until fully combined with the sauce. Cover and continue cooking for 15 to 30 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Check and stir at 15 minutes to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finish with cheese: Remove the slow cooker from heat. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover again and let sit for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a luscious cheesy topping.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten free if desired.
- Stirring the pasta halfway through cooking prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven, making it a great make-ahead meal.
- Add fresh basil or parsley garnishes for a bright, fresh finish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
