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Baked Ziti in a Crock Pot with Ricotta and Sausage: A Hearty Comfort Dish

Baked ziti is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal. Traditionally baked in the oven, this delightful dish can also be prepared effortlessly in a crock pot, allowing for a hands-off cooking experience that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This article will guide you through creating a scrumptious baked ziti with ricotta and sausage in your crock pot.

Ingredients

To serve approximately six to eight people, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g ziti pasta (or penne if preferred)
• 500g Italian sausage (either mild or spicy, depending on your preference), casings removed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 800g crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 400g tomato sauce (canned)
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 250g mozzarella cheese, grated
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or a blend)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it up into small pieces using a wooden spoon for even cooking. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Once cooked, remove from the heat.

2. Prepare the Pasta: While the sausage is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Combine the Sauce Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in half of the grated mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional herbs as desired.

4. Layering in the Crock Pot: Begin by spooning a layer of the tomato sauce mixture into the bottom of the crock pot. Add a layer of cooked ziti, then dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta. Follow with the cooked sausage mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the sauce mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the final layer.

5. Cooking: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. The ziti should be bubbling hot, and the cheese melted to perfection.

6. Serving: Once cooked, give the baked ziti a gentle stir before serving to combine the layers slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant touch. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or fontina for a unique flavour.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Baked ziti is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply adjust the cooking time if starting from cold.

Conclusion

Baked ziti in a crock pot with ricotta and sausage is an easy and delicious dish that promises comfort and flavour. Not only is it a fantastic option for feeding a crowd, but it will also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma as it cooks gently throughout the day. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty, homemade meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy this delightful dish that is sure to become a favourite in your household!

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