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Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

A comforting and hearty meal featuring pasta, cheese, and savory beef, perfect for busy days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Baked Ziti
  • 1 pound ground beef can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (28oz or 798ml, with liquid)
  • 2.5 cups marinara sauce can use meatless marinara for vegetarian option
  • 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 cups dry penne or ziti pasta (340g) can substitute with other short pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef and onion until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the garlic, salt, basil, and parsley. Cook for 1 minute.
  3. Transfer the beef mixture to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Add the tomatoes, sauce, and broth. Stir well.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
  2. When ready, turn the cooker to high. Add the uncooked pasta and stir until combined.
  3. Cover and continue cooking for 15 to 30 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Check and stir at the 15-minute mark.
  4. Remove from the heat and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Cover and let sit for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese has melted.

Notes

Serve hot, straight from the slow cooker. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. For extra flavor, sprinkle with parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.