Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

from thereciperebel.com
255 min

This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is actually made completely in the crockpot -- even the pasta! It is so much easier than the traditional version but packs all of the same flavor!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef ((or turkey or Italian sausage))
  • 1 onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 28 oz can diced tomatoes
  • 650 ml jar pasta sauce (about 2 1/2 cups)
  • 2 1/2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 375 gram box Penne or Ziti (or other short pasta (about 4 cups))
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Stir in garlic and salt and cook 1 minute. (OPTIONAL: you can also add the raw onion and spices right into the slow cooker to save on time)

  2. 2

    Add beef mixture, basil, parsley, tomatoes, pasta sauce and water to a 4qt (or larger) slow cooker. Stir.

  3. 3

    Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

  4. 4

    Turn slow cooker to high. Add pasta and stir until combined. Cover and continue cooking for 15-30 minutes (depending on how hot your slow cooker is) -- check and stir at the 15 minute mark.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle with cheese and cover for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted.