Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Three Cheeses
This hearty baked ziti combines ground beef, three types of cheese, and tender pasta in a convenient slow cooker preparation. Layers of seasoned meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and melted mozzarella create the classic comfort food experience without heating up your oven. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this one-pot meal delivers all the flavors of traditional baked ziti with minimal prep work. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the pasta perfectly tender.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 3 cans crushed tomatoes, 14.5 oz
- 1 cup beef broth
- 16 oz ziti pastapenne pasta1:1italian
Similar tube shape works well
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
Instructions
- 1
Cook ground beef and onion in large skillet until browned, breaking up meat as it cooks
- 2
Remove from heat and mix in crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning and beef broth
- 3
Stir together ricotta cheese, egg and parmesan cheese in small bowl
- 4
Spread small amount of meat mixture into bottom of crock pot to cover entirely
- 5
Layer with half of pasta then pour half of remaining sauce on top
- 6
Place spoonfuls of ricotta mixture on top of sauce and sprinkle half of mozzarella cheese
- 7
Top with remaining pasta, meat sauce, ricotta mixture and remaining mozzarella
- 8
Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours on high until pasta is tender
- 9
Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes then serve warm
Tips
You can substitute ground sausage or ground turkey for the ground beef to change up the flavor profile
Make sure to spread the meat mixture evenly on the bottom of the crock pot to prevent pasta from sticking
Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the cheese to set and make serving easier
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered container
Can assemble layers in slow cooker insert night before, refrigerate, then cook next day adding 30 minutes to cook time
Serve hot with garlic bread and side salad for complete meal
Common Mistakes
Don't skip letting it rest after cooking to avoid runny cheese
Make sure bottom layer of sauce covers entire crock pot bottom to prevent sticking
Don't overcook or pasta will become mushy
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, any tube-shaped pasta like penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli will work well as substitutes for ziti in this slow cooker recipe.
What if I don't have ricotta cheese on hand?
You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta in equal amounts, though the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How long will this keep in the refrigerator?
Leftover baked ziti will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in a covered container and reheated thoroughly.