Name: Crockpot Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; – 1/2 onion, chopped; – 3 cloves garlic, minced; – 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; – 36 ounces marinara sauce (1 1/2 jars); – 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth; – 1 pound dry ziti pasta (1 box); – 1 cup ricotta cheese; – 2 cups mozzarella cheese; – Grated Parmesan cheese, optional for topping; – Fresh basil, optional for topping

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Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Crockpot Baked Ziti recipe! With its flavorful Italian sausage, gooey cheese, and hearty pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The great flavors of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and cheese come together perfectly in this dish.
With just a few simple steps, this recipe has a quick prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Crockpot Baked Ziti is also great for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed.

Ingredient Notes:

Olive oil: Adds richness and flavor to the dish.
Italian sausage: Provides a savory and slightly spicy kick.
Onion and garlic: Enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Italian seasoning: Adds a depth of flavor with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
Marinara sauce: The base of the sauce for the baked ziti.
Beef broth: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Ziti pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that holds the sauce well.
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese: Create a creamy and cheesy topping.
Fresh basil: Adds a pop of freshness to the finished dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage, onion, and garlic until browned.
Add Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and beef broth to the skillet.
Layer the cooked sausage mixture, ziti pasta, and cheeses in the crockpot.
Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, swap out the Italian sausage for mushrooms or lentils.
To save time, you can use pre-cooked Italian sausage or store-bought marinara sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Be sure to stir the ingredients in the crockpot occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
For a crispy topping, broil the dish in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Crockpot Baked Ziti pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread. For drinks, try serving it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, ground beef or turkey can be used as a substitute.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion:

With its delicious flavors and easy preparation, Crockpot Baked Ziti is a must-try recipe for any pasta lover. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!

Crockpot Baked Ziti

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Author: Emily
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Dinner, Comfort Food, Main Dish
Method: Crockpot / Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian, American

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Description

This delicious crockpot baked ziti recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With layers of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to be a crowd pleaser.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
Stir in Italian seasoning and marinara sauce, followed by beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.
Layer the dry ziti pasta in the bottom of a greased crockpot. Pour the sausage mixture over the pasta, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Dollop ricotta cheese over the mixture, then top with mozzarella cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the dish is bubbly.
Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.