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Are you a fan of the classic Italian comfort food baked ziti, but looking for new ways to elevate the dish?
Whether you’re craving a vegetarian option, a meat lover’s dream, or a creamy twist, the slow cooker is the perfect kitchen companion to make the process easy and hassle-free.
With a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing all those rich flavors to meld together while you go about your day.
In this post, we’ve rounded up over 26 crockpot baked ziti recipes that will not only make your taste buds sing but will also simplify your dinner routine.
From the classic meatballs and marinara to unique combinations like BBQ chicken or spinach and artichokes, there’s something for everyone.
So grab your crockpot and get ready to explore these hearty, mouthwatering recipes!
26+ Irresistible Crockpot Baked Ziti Recipes for Busy Weeknights
With these 26+ crockpot baked ziti recipes at your fingertips, you’ll never be short of dinner ideas.
The versatility of baked ziti makes it a fantastic dish to customize with your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer a meat-filled version, a vegetarian option, or something in between.
By using the slow cooker, you can free up time in the kitchen while still serving up a delicious, satisfying meal.
So, next time you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dish to feed the whole family or impress guests, turn to one of these crockpot baked ziti recipes and enjoy the comforting goodness of pasta, cheese, and sauce—all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Creamy Three-Cheese Crockpot Baked Ziti
This indulgent take on classic baked ziti incorporates a trio of cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan—for a rich and creamy dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is a set-it-and-forget-it wonder that combines the comfort of traditional Italian flavors with the ease of slow cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 jar (15 oz) alfredo sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the marinara and alfredo sauces together.
- In the crockpot, spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer half of the cooked sausage, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
- Pour half of the sauce mixture over the layers. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
- Add 1 cup of water around the edges to prevent the pasta from drying out.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until the pasta is tender.
- Stir gently before serving, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
This creamy three-cheese ziti is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Serve with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
Vegetarian Crockpot Baked Ziti with Spinach and Mushrooms
A wholesome and hearty vegetarian twist on baked ziti, this recipe features layers of tender pasta, earthy mushrooms, and nutrient-packed spinach. The crockpot does all the work, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy evenings or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add half of the uncooked ziti, followed by a layer of spinach, mushrooms, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
- Pour half of the sauce mixture over the layers, ensuring the pasta is fully covered.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
- Add 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Gently stir before serving, and garnish with additional parmesan if desired.
This vegetarian baked ziti offers all the comfort of the classic dish while packing in extra veggies. Pair it with a crusty baguette for an easy, satisfying dinner.
Spicy Crockpot Baked Ziti with Sausage and Peppers
Turn up the heat with this bold and flavorful ziti recipe featuring spicy sausage and bell peppers. The slow cooker melds the smoky, spicy flavors into a hearty, delicious pasta dish that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In the crockpot, layer a small amount of marinara sauce at the bottom.
- Add half of the uncooked ziti, followed by layers of sausage, bell peppers, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika and red pepper flakes over the layers.
- Pour half of the combined marinara sauce and diced tomatoes over the ingredients. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
- Add 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, stirring gently before serving.
Spicy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this crockpot ziti is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a bit of a kick in their meals. Pair it with a green salad to balance the heat and create a well-rounded dinner.
Classic Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Beef
This simple and classic baked ziti recipe uses ground beef and a flavorful marinara sauce to create a hearty and comforting meal. With minimal preparation and the convenience of slow cooking, it’s a favorite for busy families.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 jar (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara and tomato sauce. Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a layer of sauce in the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Pour 1 cup of water around the edges of the pasta to help it cook evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and top with additional parmesan if desired.
This classic baked ziti is a crowd favorite, ideal for a filling and flavorful dinner. It’s perfect for feeding a family or for leftovers the next day.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey and Kale
Looking for a lighter version of baked ziti? This healthier twist replaces ground beef with lean ground turkey and adds nutrient-rich kale for extra flavor and fiber. The slow cooker does all the work, creating a delicious and wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh kale, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In the crockpot, combine the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked turkey, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses. Add half of the kale.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving and garnish with additional parmesan if desired.
This turkey and kale variation offers a lighter, yet equally satisfying, version of baked ziti. The combination of lean turkey and leafy greens makes this a meal you can feel good about enjoying.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Italian sausage with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, making for a hearty and comforting dish. The slow cooker ensures the flavors meld together perfectly, creating a delicious, cheesy baked ziti.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In the crockpot, combine marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked sausage, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving and top with fresh basil if desired.
This sausage and ricotta version offers a flavorful and satisfying alternative to the classic. It’s perfect for those who crave a rich and cheesy dish, packed with savory sausage.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Bacon and Cheddar
If you love the smoky flavor of bacon, this baked ziti recipe is a must-try. The crispy bacon combines with gooey cheddar cheese to create a rich, comforting pasta dish. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a fun twist on the traditional ziti.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce and smoked paprika.
- Spread a layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the bacon, ricotta, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is cooked and cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with additional bacon bits if desired.
The smoky bacon and rich cheddar cheese bring a fun, flavorful twist to this baked ziti. It’s perfect for those who love bold, savory flavors and a touch of comfort.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Eggplant and Zucchini
This vegetable-packed version of baked ziti is a great way to get your daily serving of veggies while still enjoying all the comforting, cheesy goodness of the original dish. With eggplant and zucchini adding texture and flavor, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced and chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced and chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, garlic powder, and dried basil.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot.
- Add half of the uncooked ziti, followed by layers of eggplant, zucchini, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with additional parmesan if desired.
Packed with vegetables and full of flavor, this baked ziti variation is a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while still enjoying a rich, cheesy meal.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Chicken and Pesto
For a lighter, flavorful alternative to traditional baked ziti, try this recipe with grilled chicken and basil pesto. The creamy pesto sauce adds a fresh, herbal twist, while the chicken adds protein to this easy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- ½ cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce and pesto.
- Spread a layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving and garnish with fresh basil or extra pesto if desired.
This chicken and pesto baked ziti is a fresh, flavorful twist on a traditional dish. The pesto adds a burst of freshness, making it perfect for those who love herby, savory flavors.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
This seafood-inspired baked ziti takes a rich twist with succulent shrimp and a savory garlic butter sauce. The combination of shrimp, garlic, and buttery goodness makes this a decadent yet easy-to-make meal, all thanks to the convenience of the slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
- In a bowl, combine the marinara sauce with garlic butter and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the shrimp, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and shrimp are cooked through.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color.
This shrimp and garlic butter baked ziti is a perfect blend of seafood and comfort food. It’s a great choice for seafood lovers who want a twist on the classic pasta dish.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Meatballs and Pepperoni
Combine two Italian favorites—meatballs and pepperoni—into one irresistible dish with this baked ziti recipe. The slow cooker ensures the flavors meld together for a rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 12 oz frozen meatballs
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and ricotta cheese.
- Spread a layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the meatballs, pepperoni, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender, the cheese is melted, and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Stir gently before serving and top with extra parmesan cheese if desired.
This hearty meatball and pepperoni version adds a satisfying twist to the classic baked ziti. It’s perfect for meat lovers and a fun variation on a beloved dish.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Sausage and Broccoli
Looking for a vegetable-packed version of baked ziti? This recipe includes sausage for flavor, but adds broccoli to balance it out, creating a healthy yet satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. The slow cooker ensures the broccoli remains tender without losing its nutritional value.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked sausage, steamed broccoli, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving and garnish with extra parmesan if desired.
This sausage and broccoli version is a perfect way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying all the cheesy goodness of baked ziti. It’s a great family-friendly option that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with BBQ Chicken and Red Onions
For a fun, bold twist on baked ziti, try this BBQ chicken version with tangy barbecue sauce and the sweetness of caramelized red onions. The slow cooker helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 medium red onion, sliced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, sauté the red onion until caramelized, about 5–7 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce and marinara sauce.
- Spread a layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the shredded chicken, caramelized onions, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and top with fresh cilantro for a fresh touch.
This BBQ chicken version brings a smoky, sweet element to baked ziti, offering a fun fusion of flavors. It’s perfect for those who love a barbecue twist on their pasta.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Alfredo Sauce and Chicken
For a richer, creamier take on baked ziti, this recipe uses Alfredo sauce in place of marinara. Paired with juicy chicken, this version is a decadent comfort food that’s easy to make in the slow cooker, perfect for satisfying cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the shredded chicken, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir before serving and garnish with extra parmesan if desired.
This creamy Alfredo chicken baked ziti is the epitome of comfort food. The rich sauce and tender chicken make it a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy, making it ideal for family dinners.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Bell Peppers
This version of baked ziti features ground beef and bell peppers for a flavorful, colorful twist. The peppers add a hint of sweetness and crunch to complement the savory beef and melty cheese. It’s a delicious and visually appealing dish that’s easy to make in the slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and ricotta cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked beef, bell peppers, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and top with fresh basil if desired.
This bell pepper and beef variation adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness to the savory dish, making it a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Spinach and Artichokes
This light yet satisfying version of baked ziti incorporates the earthy flavors of spinach and artichokes for a hearty and nutritious dish. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta balance the vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food with a healthy twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked spinach, artichokes, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra parmesan if desired.
This baked ziti recipe is a great way to incorporate greens into a comforting dish. The spinach and artichokes bring an extra depth of flavor while keeping the meal lighter and nutritious.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Mushrooms and Cream Cheese
For a rich and creamy take on baked ziti, try adding mushrooms and cream cheese to the mix. The mushrooms provide an earthy, savory flavor that complements the creamy texture of the cream cheese, making for a decadent and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, sauté the mushrooms over medium heat until softened. Set aside.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and basil.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the sautéed mushrooms, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh basil or additional parmesan.
The combination of creamy cheese and earthy mushrooms makes this baked ziti a rich and flavorful dish. The cream cheese adds extra smoothness, ensuring that each bite is indulgent and satisfying.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Lamb and Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired version of baked ziti replaces traditional beef with ground lamb, adding a unique depth of flavor. Feta cheese brings a tangy, creamy contrast, making this dish a deliciously different twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked lamb, ricotta, mozzarella, and feta cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra feta or fresh mint.
This baked ziti with ground lamb and feta offers a delightful Mediterranean twist. The savory lamb and tangy feta create an unforgettable combination, perfect for anyone looking to try something new with their ziti.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey and Cranberries
This festive and slightly sweet version of baked ziti is made with ground turkey and cranberries, offering a perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors. The cranberries bring a touch of tartness that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the turkey and cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and ricotta cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked turkey, cranberries, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh parsley or additional cranberries.
This version of baked ziti offers a unique combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberries. It’s a fun, festive twist on the classic that will stand out at any dinner table, especially during the holiday season.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Bacon and Ranch
For bacon lovers, this baked ziti recipe is a dream come true. The smoky flavor of crispy bacon combined with the tanginess of ranch dressing creates an indulgent and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce and ranch seasoning mix.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the crispy bacon, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh chives or additional bacon.
This bacon and ranch version of baked ziti brings an irresistible flavor combination that’s creamy, smoky, and tangy. It’s an indulgent twist on the classic that’s perfect for bacon enthusiasts.
Crockpot Baked Ziti with Ground Pork and Sweet Potatoes
This hearty and wholesome variation of baked ziti incorporates ground pork and sweet potatoes, offering a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The sweet potatoes add a soft, comforting texture that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and ground pork.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta, uncooked
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Steam or boil the sweet potato cubes until tender, about 10–15 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine marinara sauce, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the crockpot. Add half of the uncooked ziti.
- Layer with half of the cooked ground pork, sweet potatoes, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients. Pour 1 cup of water around the edges.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
This baked ziti with ground pork and sweet potatoes is a great comfort food dish with a twist. The sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory pork and cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!