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A serving of slow cooker baked ziti with melted cheese and marinara sauce.

Crock Pot Baked Ziti

A comforting, cheesy baked ziti made effortlessly in a slow cooker, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ricotta Mixture
  • 32 oz ricotta This creamy cheese provides a luxurious texture.
  • 2 large eggs Helps bind the mixture and adds fluffiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Amplifies the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon basil Fragrant herb that complements the tomato sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan Adds depth and flavor.
For the Layers
  • 48 oz marinara sauce A rich, tomato-based sauce.
  • 12 oz gluten-free penne Easy-to-cook pasta that absorbs flavors.
  • 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese Provides a melty, gooey topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Spray the entire slow cooker insert with non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, eggs, parmesan, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. Cover the bottom of the slow cooker with a layer of marinara sauce.
  4. Layer the gluten-free penne on top of the sauce, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
  5. Take about five scoops of the ricotta mixture and drop them onto the sauce and pasta.
  6. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
  7. Repeat layers of sauce, pasta, ricotta, and cheese two more times.
  8. Finish with a final layer of sauce, topped with extra mozzarella and parmesan.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 hours.
  2. Serve with an extra sprinkle of grated parmesan on top.

Notes

To elevate the dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Using different cheeses such as provolone or fontina can enhance the flavor profile.