Name: Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487717H18M2S
Total time: PT-487717H18M2S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 can diced tomatoes (28 ounces); 1 jar pasta sauce (650 ml); 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 box penne or ziti (375 grams); 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a crowd-pleasing comfort food that feels effortlessly homey yet delivers on big, bold flavor, look no further than this Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. It combines tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, melty cheese, and herbed beef, all melded together in your slow cooker for an irresistible, hearty meal. This is the kind of easy weeknight dinner that gets everyone around the table, and I promise, leftovers (if you even have any!) will be just as delicious the next day.

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by how simple these ingredients are—each one brings something special to the party, from building classic Italian flavors to guaranteeing the perfect texture and cheesy finish. These basics work in harmony for a wonderfully satisfying Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti!

Ground beef (1 pound): Delivers hearty flavor and protein; swap for turkey or sausage for your own twist.
Onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth, helping the whole dish come alive.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Gives the sauce its signature aromatic punch—fresh or jarred both work well.
Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Essential for bringing out all the savory goodness—taste and adjust as you go.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Brings herby brightness that makes every bite sing.
Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Adds green flecks and a mild, fresh undertone.
Canned diced tomatoes (28 ounces): The backbone of the sauce—choose your favorite brand for best results.
Pasta sauce (1 jar, about 2 1/2 cups): Layers in that slow-simmered flavor without the work.
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 1/2 cups): Keeps the sauce perfectly saucy and lets the pasta cook evenly—beef or veggie broth also works.
Ziti or penne pasta (1 box/375 grams): Holds up beautifully to slow cooking and soaks up all the saucy flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Gives you that irresistible cheesy pull—don’t be shy!

How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by browning your ground beef with the finely chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat. You’re looking for the beef to turn perfectly brown and crumbly, while the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, some salt, basil, and parsley, and cook for just a minute more to unlock the herbs’ aroma. If you’re tight on time, you can toss the raw onion, garlic, and spices directly into the slow cooker—you’ll still get wonderful flavor, just a little more rustic!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once your beef mixture is ready, transfer it to a 4-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, your favorite pasta sauce, and the broth of your choice. Stir well to make sure every ingredient is mingling nicely with the rest. This is where the magic of Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti truly begins—the flavors will have plenty of time to get cozy.

Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker

Set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This is your chance to let the sauce deepen and all those savory notes develop. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing, and you’ll know you’re just a couple steps away from Italian-inspired comfort food bliss!

Step 4: Add Pasta to the Slow Cooker

After the sauce has bubbled away and melded together, turn your slow cooker to high. Add the dry pasta, stirring it right into the sauce so each piece gets coated. Cover and let everything cook for 15 to 30 minutes, giving it a stir at the 15-minute mark, until the pasta is just the way you like it—tender with a bit of bite.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Serve

When the pasta has reached your ideal texture, it’s mozzarella time! Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top, then cover for another 3 to 5 minutes. As soon as the cheese is perfectly melty and deliciously gooey, your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti is ready to serve. Get ready for smiles all around the table!

How to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil gives a pop of green and makes the whole dish feel extra special. For a classic Italian touch, add a dusting of grated Parmesan or a generous pinch of red pepper flakes if you love a little heat. A drizzle of good olive oil or even a spoonful of ricotta on top also works wonders!

Side Dishes

Pair your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread for the ultimate cozy dinner spread. Anything light and fresh—from lemony greens to a platter of roasted veggies—will balance the rich, cheesy pasta and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For family style, serve straight from the slow cooker (just set it to “warm” so everyone can help themselves). If you’re having guests, try spooning the ziti into individual ramekins, finishing each with a little extra cheese and a quick broil for bubbly tops. Leftovers also make killer lunch bowls sprinkled with extra herbs or served cold like a pasta salad!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti cool to room temperature, then spoon it into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or a second dinner. The flavors actually get even better after a day as everything continues to meld together.

Freezing

This dish freezes like a dream! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip bags, squeeze out excess air, and label with the date. When you’re ready for another cozy dinner, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. The pasta may soften a touch but the flavor will remain comforting and full.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave (cover loosely and heat in 45-second bursts, stirring in between). For larger portions, warm in an oven-safe dish at 350 degrees F, covered with foil, until piping hot. If things seem a bit dry, splash in a little broth or water to bring back the sauciness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti and penne are classic, any sturdy short pasta like rigatoni or rotini will work beautifully in your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. Avoid very thin or small shapes since they may get too soft in the sauce.

Do I have to brown the meat first?

Browning the meat and onions first builds richer, deeper flavor, but if you’re in a rush you can skip straight to the slow cooker step. Just know that the texture might be a bit different, though still totally delicious!

Can I make Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the meat entirely or swap in cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or your favorite plant-based ground “meat.” Make sure to use vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian version.

What if my pasta is too soft or too firm?

The trick with slow cooker pasta is keeping an eye on it. Stir and check after 15 minutes—if it’s not quite done, give it a few more minutes, but take care not to overdo it. If it gets too soft, don’t stress—it’ll still taste phenomenal!

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You sure can! Assemble everything except the pasta in your slow cooker insert the evening before and refrigerate. The next day, start from Step 3, adding the pasta when it’s time. This makes Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti a terrific make-ahead option for busy weeks or feeding a crowd.

Final Thoughts

Few things are as welcoming as a bubbling pot of Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, ready to scoop and serve to your favorite people. It takes classic Italian comfort and makes it effortless, so don’t wait to try this recipe—your kitchen is about to smell incredible!

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes on low, 3 hours 20 minutes on high
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Savor the delightful flavors of a comforting and easy-to-make Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. This hearty dish features tender pasta, savory beef, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic, salt, basil, and parsley. Alternatively, add raw ingredients to slow cooker.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker. Add tomatoes, pasta sauce, and broth. Stir to combine.
Cook in the Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Add Pasta to the Slow Cooker: Stir in pasta, cook for 15-30 minutes until tender.
Finish with Cheese and Serve: Top with cheese, melt for 3-5 minutes. Serve hot.

Notes

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta for a unique twist.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian