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Crock Pot Baked Ziti

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Crock Pot Baked Ziti is a hearty, comforting pasta dish layered with savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Made entirely in the slow cooker, it delivers classic baked ziti flavor without using the oven.

Ingredients

1 pound ground Italian sausage

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

1 (16-ounce) box uncooked ziti pasta

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground Italian sausage and chopped onion for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, water or broth, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Lightly grease a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
  4. Layer one-third of the uncooked ziti over the sauce, followed by one-third of the meat sauce, dollops of ricotta, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with cheese on top.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
  6. Turn off the slow cooker and let the ziti sit uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

For added nutrition, stir chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat sauce before layering.

Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta for a lighter texture, or use cream cheese for a richer result.

Penne or rigatoni can be used in place of ziti with similar cooking time.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: http://recipesbyjanet.com/crock-pot-baked-ziti/