Crock Pot Baked Ziti with Meat

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Crock Pot Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining the hearty flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of slow cooking. This dish layers tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a medley of cheeses for a warm, gooey meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into how to create this easy and delicious recipe right in your slow cooker.

Crock Pot Baked Ziti Recipe with Meat

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Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture:

  • 32 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 48 oz marinara sauce 2 jars, 24 oz each
  • 12 oz uncooked ziti pasta or gluten-free penne, if preferred
  • 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation:

  • Brown the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
  • Mix the Ricotta: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, salt, basil, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Assembling the Layers:

  • Prepare the Crock Pot: Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick spray or lightly coat with oil to prevent sticking.

Layering:

  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of the crock pot.
  • Add half of the browned ground beef, spreading it evenly.
  • Place a layer of uncooked ziti pasta over the meat.
  • Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, spreading slightly.
  • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
  • Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a generous layer of marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan.

Cooking:

  • Cook in the Crock Pot: Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-2.5 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours. The pasta should be tender but not mushy.
  • Check for Doneness: Test the pasta for doneness before serving. If needed, cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

Flavor Enhancements:

  • Add Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for extra flavor.
  • Sauté diced onions or bell peppers with the ground beef for added texture and taste.

Substitutions and Variations:

  • Use ground sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick.
  • Substitute ziti with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding spinach or mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
  • Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Additional Tips:

  • Incorporate Parmesan cheese for extra richness in the ricotta mixture.
  • Use a skillet for browning the meat evenly before layering.
  • Cook the pasta al dente before assembling if you prefer a firmer texture.
  • For a creamier texture, add a layer of cheesy béchamel sauce between the pasta and meat.

Storage:

  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly to maintain flavor and freshness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze uncooked ziti layers in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating:

  • Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of marinara sauce if the pasta seems dry.

Why Use a Crock Pot for Baked Ziti?

  • One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in the slow cooker.
  • No Pre-Boiling Pasta: The uncooked ziti absorbs the flavors as it cooks.
  • Keeps the Kitchen Cool: Perfect for summer months when you want to avoid using the oven.
  • Rich, Slow-Cooked Flavor: The long cooking time allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
  • Family-Sized Portions: This recipe easily serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and freeze for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot Baked Ziti is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its cheesy layers, hearty meat sauce, and tender pasta, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Try this recipe today and enjoy the magic of slow-cooked Italian goodness!