If you’re searching for the coziest family dinner that basically cooks itself, look no further than Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. Imagine tender pasta nestled in a flavorful tomato sauce, layers of rich ground beef, caramelized onions, and bubbling mozzarella cheese—all achieved with almost no hands-on effort. This dish brings comfort and cheer straight to your table while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday, this hearty crowd-pleaser promises smiles and second helpings. Let’s unlock your slow cooker’s best-kept secret!

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s truly remarkable how just a few classic ingredients can create something so downright delicious! Each one plays a starring role, melding together to give Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti its crave-worthy taste, cheesy texture, and vibrant color.

Ground beef (1 pound): Packs the dish with richness and protein; swap for Italian sausage or turkey for a fun twist!
Onion (finely chopped): Adds sweet, mellow depth and the perfect aromatic base to your sauce.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): A little goes a long way to punch up the savory flavor.
Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers a comforting note of herbiness that makes the pasta sauce taste homemade.
Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Lends a garden-fresh hint and a pop of green.
Diced tomatoes, canned (28 ounces): Brings juicy brightness and classic tomato flavor to the sauce.
Pasta sauce (650 ml, about 2 1/2 cups): Keeps things easy and ensures the finished dish is extra saucy—use your favorite jar!
Low-sodium chicken broth (2 1/2 cups): Adds depth and helps the pasta cook perfectly in the slow cooker; beef or veggie broth works too.
Ziti or penne pasta (1 box, about 4 cups): Holds sauce beautifully and creates that “just like baked” hearty bite.
Mozzarella cheese, shredded (2 cups): Melts into gooey, golden perfection—the ultimate comfort food finish.

How to Make Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by browning the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the beef is fully cooked and the onion turns soft and fragrant, stir in the garlic, a pinch of salt, dried basil, and dried parsley. Let everything sizzle for about a minute, just until the garlic blossoms with flavor. Want to save a little time? You can always add the raw onion, garlic, and dried herbs directly to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. The slow, gentle heat will work its magic either way!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Next, transfer your aromatic beef mixture into a 4-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, and broth—this saucy trio provides all the moisture and savory richness your pasta will soak up. Give everything a good stir, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed for the most flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker

Set it and forget it! Seal the lid, then cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This patient approach lets every bit of flavor develop and blend beautifully—plus, your kitchen will smell impossibly inviting.

Step 4: Add Pasta to the Slow Cooker

After the initial slow cooker magic, switch the heat to high and stir your uncooked ziti or penne directly into the sauce. Make sure the pasta is coated evenly so it cooks perfectly. Replace the lid and let it continue to cook for another 15 to 30 minutes. Check and stir at the 15-minute mark—the pasta should be tender, but not mushy, and swimming in the savory sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Serve

The grand finale! Sprinkle generous handfuls of shredded mozzarella across the hot pasta, cover again, and cook for 3 to 5 more minutes. Watch as the cheese turns irresistibly melty and gooey. Spoon out generous helpings of Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti, and get ready for pure comfort in every mouthful!

How to Serve Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti

Garnishes

The right toppings make this baked ziti truly shine. Shower it with extra shredded mozzarella, a flurry of grated Parmesan, or torn fresh basil for delightful color and fragrance. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or red chili flakes never hurts if you want a little zing!

Side Dishes

Pair your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with crisp garlic bread, a zesty Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. These simple sides add texture, color, and a fresh counterpoint to the rich, saucy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun twists, serve the ziti in individual ramekins for a dinner party vibe, or stuff leftovers into hollowed bell peppers before a final bake. You can even use this cheesy pasta as a filling for crusty sandwich rolls—a “baked ziti sub” is always a hit in my house!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti keeps beautifully! Transfer cooled portions to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch extra satisfying.

Freezing

If you want to squirrel some away for a rainy day, portion the fully cooked and cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just label your containers clearly—future you will thank you!

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings with a splash of water or extra sauce, covering lightly to keep things moist. For a family-style feast, warm the ziti in a covered baking dish at 325°F until hot and melty throughout.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Italian sausage, turkey, or a plant-based ground all work brilliantly and can add unique flavors to your Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti. Just pick your favorite and enjoy!

Should I cook the pasta before adding it?

No need! Adding the dry pasta to the slow cooker ensures it absorbs flavor from the sauce and cooks to a delectable, tender consistency right in the pot—no extra pots required.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You bet. Omit the meat and bump up the veggies—think mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Use vegetable broth and you’ll have a delicious, hearty vegetarian version of Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti.

What if my slow cooker is smaller than 4 quarts?

If your slow cooker is smaller, halve the recipe to prevent overflowing and make sure the pasta can cook evenly in the sauce. The process remains exactly the same, just with cozy “mini” portions.

How do I prevent the pasta from turning mushy?

Add the dry pasta in toward the end of cooking, watch closely the first time you try the recipe, and check at the 15-minute mark. Stir occasionally, and you’ll have a perfectly tender bite every time!

Final Thoughts

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti delivers comfort and convenience in every cheesy, saucy forkful. This recipe is always met with happy faces and empty plates! Don’t wait—grab your slow cooker and dive in. I can’t wait for you to share the magic of this dish with your loved ones.

Savory Slow Cooker Baked Ziti Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 28 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes (low) or 3 hours 20 minutes (high)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and flavorful slow-cooked pasta dish, this savory slow cooker baked ziti is a convenient and delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion. Add garlic, salt, basil, and parsley.
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: Set to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Add Pasta to the Slow Cooker: After initial cooking, add pasta. Cook for 15-30 minutes.
Finish with Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle with cheese and cook until melted. Serve hot.

Notes

You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.

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