Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe
This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a comforting, hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Featuring tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this hands-off recipe delivers all the flavors of a classic baked ziti with minimal effort.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey or Italian sausage
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 650 ml jar pasta sauce (about 2½ cups)
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 375 g box penne or ziti (about 4 cups)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Cook the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb ground beef with 1 finely chopped onion. Stir in 1 teaspoon minced garlic, 1½ teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley. Cook for an additional 1 minute, then remove from heat.
Prepare the mixture:
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a 4-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Add 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, 650 ml pasta sauce, and 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Cook in the slow cooker:
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Add pasta:
- Turn the slow cooker to high, add 4 cups penne or ziti pasta, and stir. Cover and cook for 15-30 minutes, stirring at the 15-minute mark to check for doneness.
Add cheese:
- Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy this comforting, cheesy pasta dish.
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