If comfort food had a reigning champion, it would undoubtedly be this Crock Pot Baked Ziti. Packed with hearty pasta, savory ground sausage, rich marinara, and not one, not two, but three kinds of gooey cheese, this dish is a surefire way to win over hearts (and stomachs) alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—no need for boiling the ziti! Just layer everything in your slow cooker, set it to cook, and forget about it. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Want to switch out the meat? Go ahead. Looking to sneak in some veggies? The choice is yours!

When you have a crowd to impress but don’t want to stress over dinner, this crock pot marvel is here to save the day. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Ziti

• Italian Sausage: I prefer hot Italian sausage for that extra kick, but sweet or mild varieties work just as well. If it’s in casings, simply remove them before crumbling into the pan.
• Onion and Garlic: Finely chop the onion and garlic for a rich aromatic flavor that melds beautifully into the sauce.
• Marinara Sauce: Opt for a high-quality jarred sauce or whip up homemade if you’re feeling inspired.
• Tomato Sauce: I add tomato sauce to enhance the marinara’s flavor and make sure there’s enough to perfectly coat the pasta.
• Water or Broth: I typically go with low-sodium broth to infuse the pasta with flavor as it cooks. Water is a fine alternative, but broth adds a little extra depth.
• Seasonings: I like to spice things up with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Be sure to taste your sauce first; some jarred varieties come already seasoned.
• Cheeses: We’re using ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan here. Fontina, provolone, or even cream cheese are great alternatives if you’re looking for a twist. Freshly grated cheese is crucial—it blends in beautifully and avoids clumping.

How to Make Crock Pot Baked Ziti

This recipe is a breeze to prepare, thanks to the magic of a slow cooker. It does all the heavy lifting for you!

1. Brown the Meat

Start by cooking the ground sausage and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, or until browned. Add the garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Make the Sauce

Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, broth or water, and seasonings. Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. Assemble

Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of your crock pot. Layer 1/3 of the uncooked ziti, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat this sequence two more times for a total of three layers.

4. Cook

Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 3.5 to 4 hours.

5. Serve

Once cooked, let it rest with the lid off for 10-15 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and ladle out servings for all to enjoy!

Tips and Variations

This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so don’t stress about perfecting every detail. Here are some tips to customize it to your liking:

• Grease the Pot: Lightly spray your crock pot with non-stick spray to make cleanup a breeze.
• Cheese: Cottage cheese can substitute for ricotta, offering a similar texture. If you want something creamier, cream cheese is a delightful option.
• Italian Sausage: Feel free to swap it out for ground beef, chicken, or turkey.
• Creamy Ziti: For a richer experience, replace half of the broth or water with heavy cream.
• Pasta: Use any short pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni, instead of ziti.
• Vegetables: Mix in shredded zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or finely chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Pesto: For a unique twist, add dollops of pesto alongside the ricotta layer!

Serving Suggestions

This delicious crock pot baked ziti pairs beautifully with garlic bread or dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up that flavorful sauce.

For a balanced meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables like broccolini, or a fresh salad to brighten things up.

How to Store Slow-Cooker Baked Ziti

To Store or Make-Ahead: Let the baked ziti cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

To Freeze: Portion the ziti into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes.