Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Ashley . The Recipe Rebel

Video Stats

Host: Ashley . The Recipe Rebel
Published: Aug 22, 2025
Views: 1.3k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 240 min
Difficulty: Beginner
Serves: 6

Overview

Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is a dish that brings comfort and ease to any meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it allows for customization. Starting with browning ground beef and onions in a skillet, the process sets the stage for a rich flavor base. Once the meat is ready, everything else goes into the slow cooker, including the pasta, which cooks perfectly in the sauce. This method not only saves time but also ensures that the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks.

One of the standout features of this baked ziti is its versatility. You can easily add in your favorite vegetables, making it a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition. Whether you prefer spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, the options are endless. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can feed a crowd and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy your day while the meal cooks itself. When you return home, you’ll be greeted by the inviting aroma of baked ziti, ready to be served. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a reminder of how cooking can be both simple and rewarding, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:09

Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet.

2
00:11

Toast the spices in the skillet.

3
00:13

Cook everything else directly in the crock pot, including the pasta.

Ingredients

Serves: 6
Onion1
Tomato Sauce24 oz
Cheese2 cups
Spices
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Dairy

    → Substitution: Almond Milk

Ingredient: Gluten

    → Substitution: Gluten-Free Pasta

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
25
per serving
Carbs
60
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Beginner
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

Got a Recipe Question? Ask Away!

Interesting Tidbits

  • Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, cheese, and sauce.
  • Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
  • You can easily customize baked ziti by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
  • Toasting spices before adding them enhances their flavor in the final dish.