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Crock Pot Baked Ziti

Crock Pot Baked Ziti: Cozy Cheesy Goodness in Every Bite

Enjoy Crock Pot Baked Ziti, a comforting dish combining cheesy goodness and effortless preparation for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitution: Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used in place of ricotta.
  • 2 large Eggs Omit if allergic; the dish will still hold together.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Extra for topping enhances final flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste; omit if concerned about sodium intake.
  • 1 tsp Basil Dried basil works if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper Use black pepper for a classic flavor.
For the Pasta Layer
  • 12 oz Gluten-Free Penne Consider swapping with regular penne or ziti if gluten is not a concern.
  • 4 cups Marinara Sauce Substitution: Any tomato-based sauce can be used, such as spaghetti sauce.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Fresh mozzarella can be used for a creamier texture.

Equipment

  • slow cooker

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Spray the insert of your slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, basil, and pepper.
  3. Pour a layer of marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Spread uncooked gluten-free penne evenly over the marinara sauce.
  5. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture across the top of the pasta.
  6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta mixture.
  7. Continue layering with marinara sauce, penne, ricotta, and mozzarella for two additional times.
  8. Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  9. Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for about 2 ½ hours.
  10. Let the Crock Pot Baked Ziti rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Garnish with fresh basil or extra cheese before serving for added flavor.

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