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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.