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Crock Pot Baked Ziti – Super Easy!

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and heartiness of baked ziti. This classic Italian-American dish is layers of pasta, cheese and sauce, all baked to perfection. But what if you could enjoy this delicious dish without the hassle of baking? Enter the crock pot, your secret weapon for creating a mouth-watering baked ziti with minimal effort!

Why Choose the Crock Pot?

Using a slow cooker to make baked ziti is a game changer. Not only does it free up your oven for other dishes, but it also allows the flavours to meld beautifully as the meal cooks slowly. The result is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients

To make your crock pot baked ziti, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 450g (1 lb) ziti pasta
• 680g (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favourite pasta sauce)
• 250g (9 oz) ricotta cheese
• 450g (16 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 100g (3.5 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Method

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to the packet instructions—aim for al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, the grated Parmesan, the egg, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well until combined.

3. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly grease your crock pot with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Start with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ziti. Next, add half of the cheese mixture on top of the pasta. Repeat the process with another layer of marinara sauce, the remaining ziti, and then the rest of the cheese mixture.

4. Finish with Sauce and Cheese: Pour any remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all the pasta is nicely coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that deliciously cheesy finish.

5. Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for about 4 to 6 hours, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If you’re in a rush, you can set it to high for around 2 to 3 hours.

6. Serve: Once cooked, give the ziti a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of colour and flavour. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and effortless meal!

Tips for Success

• Variations: Feel free to mix in some cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added flavour and nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers: For an extra cheesy baked ziti, add additional layers of mozzarella or even some provolone cheese.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

Crock pot baked ziti is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or cosy weekend dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up a delicious meal that will impress family and friends alike. So why not give this super easy recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!