Ingredients (4 Simple Items)
- 1 pound (16 oz) uncooked penne pasta
- 1 jar (24–26 oz) pasta sauce (marinara or any red sauce)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Step 2: Add Sauce Base
Pour about 1 cup of pasta sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it evenly. This layer prevents the pasta from sticking and drying out.
Step 3: First Pasta Layer
Add one-third of the uncooked penne pasta in an even layer over the sauce. It’s okay if the pasta overlaps slightly.
Step 4: First Cheese Layer
Sprinkle:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan
evenly over the pasta.
Step 5: Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layering process two more times:
- Sauce
- Penne
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
Finish with a final layer of sauce on top to ensure all pasta is well-coated.
Step 6: Press and Check Moisture
Gently press down with the back of a spoon so the sauce flows around the pasta. If any pasta looks dry, spoon extra sauce over it.
Step 7: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
Avoid opening the lid too often—this releases heat and increases cooking time.
Step 8: Final Cheese Topping
About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt until bubbly.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Turn the slow cooker to WARM and let the pasta rest for 10 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Use regular penne, not quick-cook pasta
- Ensure pasta is fully covered with sauce
- Cook on LOW only (HIGH can burn edges)
- Stirring is not needed and can break pasta
Recipe Variations
- Add Meat: Brown 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage and mix into the sauce
- Lasagna-Style: Add spoonfuls of ricotta or cottage cheese between layers
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce
- Herb Flavor: Sprinkle Italian seasoning or garlic powder between layers
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Microwave or reheat in a covered pan with a little extra sauce
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO Friendly)
Can I use ziti instead of penne?
Yes, ziti, rigatoni, or rotini work well.
Do I need to cook the pasta first?
No, the pasta cooks perfectly in the slow cooker.
Why is my pasta dry?
Dry pasta needs enough sauce. Make sure all pasta is well covered.
Final Thoughts
This 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Baked Ziti-Style Penne is proof that simple ingredients can create big comfort-food flavor. It’s cheesy, filling, and incredibly easy—perfect for anyone who loves low-effort, high-reward meals.