5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Ziti (Print-Friendly)

Comforting baked ziti layered with marinara sauce and three types of cheese, cooked slowly for tender results.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 1 lb uncooked ziti or penne pasta

→ Sauce and Cheese

02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce
03 - 12 oz ricotta cheese
04 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
05 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

# How To Make It:

01 - Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with oil or nonstick spray.
02 - Spread about ½ cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker.
03 - Distribute half of the uncooked pasta evenly over the sauce. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
04 - Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the cheese layer.
05 - Repeat layering with the remaining pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
06 - Pour the last portion of marinara sauce evenly over the top layer.
07 - Cover and cook on low heat for 3 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Let the dish stand uncovered for 10 minutes to allow easier slicing before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Simple 5-ingredient recipe
  • Made entirely in a slow cooker
02 -
  • Add cooked Italian sausage ground beef or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor
  • Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred
03 -
  • For a spicy kick add a pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Serve with a green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal
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