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Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

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The Ultimate Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

For those hectic days when you crave a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss, Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is your answer. This dish combines the rich flavors of Italian-American cuisine in a convenient, time-saving way. Much like lasagna’s easygoing cousin, baked ziti offers that same cheesy, saucy goodness with far less effort.

Perfect Pairings

This baked ziti pairs beautifully with a simple green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. Add some crusty garlic bread for dipping into the luscious sauce, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies every craving. For beverages, a robust Chianti or a crisp sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In your slow cooker, combine the cooked meat, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked ziti pasta, making sure it’s well-coated with the sauce.
  4. Add Ricotta: Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or until the pasta is tender.
  6. Cheese Topping: During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
  7. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
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Variations & Tips

  • Lighter Option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner dish.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
  • Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta but monitor closely as it may cook faster.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or choose a spicy marinara sauce for some heat.

This slow cooker baked ziti is a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering the comforting flavors of a classic Italian dish with minimal prep time. Enjoy!

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