Crockpot Baked Ziti

Crockpot Baked Ziti is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a perfect dish for busy days or when you want a warm, hearty meal without much effort. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 (16 oz) box ziti pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the basil, oregano, marinara sauce, and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a slow cooker, layer the meat sauce, uncooked pasta, and cheeses.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the dish is heated through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicier flavor.
• Different Pasta: If you don’t have ziti, you can substitute it with any other short pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Crockpot Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ground beef? Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to cook it fully and drain the fat before adding it to the sauce.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to substitute the ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce and layer it with the pasta in the slow cooker the night before. Then, just cook it the next day.
4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce? Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly, but you can also use homemade sauce if you prefer.
5. Can I freeze Crockpot Baked Ziti? Yes, you can freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
6. Can I add vegetables to the dish? Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
7. Can I use a different cheese? Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with other cheeses like provolone, ricotta, or fontina.
8. Do I need to cook the pasta before adding it to the crockpot? No, you can add the uncooked pasta directly into the slow cooker. It will cook in the sauce.
9. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, but the pasta may not absorb as much of the sauce as it would on low.
10. What can I serve with Crockpot Baked Ziti? Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Crockpot Baked Ziti is an easy and delicious meal that comes together with minimal effort. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual family dinner. With its rich, cheesy flavor and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your slow cooker recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this hearty dish!

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