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Classic Crockpot Baked ziti

Classic Crockpot Baked Ziti

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Slow cooker at least 6-quart capacity
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage or ground beef
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 can 15 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 oz uncooked ziti pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups water or broth
  • Fresh basil for garnish optional

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage or ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.

Prepare the Sauce

  1. Add the cooked meat, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
    crockpot filled with browned ground meat

Add the Pasta

  1. Pour the uncooked ziti into the crockpot and mix well to ensure it's evenly coated in the sauce.

Add Water

  1. Pour in the water or broth, ensuring all pasta is submerged in the liquid.

Slow Cook

  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cheese it Up

  1. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in ricotta cheese, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt.

Serve and Enjoy

  1. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot!