Ultimate Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe: Easy, Cheesy & Family-Friendly

If you’re craving a warm, comforting pasta dish that practically cooks itself, look no further. This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the ultimate one-pot meal—packed with rich tomato flavor, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or when you need to feed a hungry crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this detailed recipe, you’ll learn how to layer flavors, keep your pasta from turning mushy, and achieve that cheesy, baked texture all in your slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
Crowd-pleasing: Cheesy, saucy, and kid-friendly.
Versatile: Can be made with ground beef, sausage, or vegetarian.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this flavorful dish, gather the following:

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage – For a meaty base. Italian sausage adds extra seasoning.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – Pick your favorite brand or make it homemade.
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Adds depth and moisture.
1/2 cup water – Helps cook the pasta without drying it out.
1 tsp garlic powder – For that extra savory kick.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Salt & pepper to taste
16 oz uncooked ziti pasta – Do not pre-boil. The slow cooker will handle it.
1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creaminess between layers.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The more, the better.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For that sharp, salty finish.
Fresh basil or parsley – Optional, but great for garnish and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain excess grease to prevent an oily sauce.

2. Mix the Sauce

To the cooked meat, stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, water, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors combine.

3. Layer in the Slow Cooker

First Layer: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your slow cooker.
Second Layer: Add half of the uncooked ziti pasta over the sauce.
Third Layer: Drop spoonfuls of ricotta across the pasta.
Fourth Layer: Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese.
Fifth Layer: Add another layer of sauce.

Repeat the layers once more: pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce. On top, finish with the remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan.

4. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours.
Important: Start checking around the 4-hour mark. Pasta should be tender but not overcooked.

5. Let It Rest and Serve

Once done, turn off the heat and let the ziti rest for about 10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. This helps the cheese set and the flavors blend.

Top with chopped basil or parsley before serving if desired.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcook: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. 4 hours is usually perfect.
Customize it: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Use fresh cheese: Shredding mozzarella and Parmesan yourself makes a big difference in flavor and melt.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use penne instead of ziti?

Yes! Penne or rigatoni work well as substitutes.

What’s the best type of slow cooker to use?

A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe, giving enough space for layering.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just skip the meat or use lentils or meatless crumbles instead.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is the perfect marriage of comfort food and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings the joy of a baked pasta dinner without turning on the oven.