Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cream Cheese Recipe

Baking ziti in a slow cooker creates a comforting, rich, and flavorful meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cream Cheese Recipe blends hearty Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and zesty tomato sauce into a bubbling, cheesy delight that will satisfy your family or guests with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers all the warmth and aroma of a classic baked pasta dish without the fuss of oven baking. The cream cheese adds a luscious, velvety texture that takes the sauce to the next level, while the Italian sausage introduces a savory depth that perfectly balances the tangy tomato flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color, turning a humble pasta bake into a show-stopping meal.

• 48 oz. Pasta Marinara Sauce or Meat Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce base for that deep, rich Italian flavor foundation.
• 29 oz. Diced Italian Tomatoes: Adds freshness and a chunky, natural tomato bite to the sauce.
• 1 lb. Italian Sausage (cooked and crumbled): Brings savory, spiced goodness that makes every mouthful unforgettable.
• 1 1/2 cups Water: Keeps the sauce nicely hydrated to cook the pasta perfectly in the slow cooker.
• 8 oz. Cream Cheese (softened): Gives the dish its creamy, dreamy texture that keeps every bite luscious.
• 1 Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture so it holds just right.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): Adds a tangy, nutty punch and depth to the cheese layer.
• 1 tablespoon Garlic (minced): Infuses the entire dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
• 2 teaspoons Basil (chopped): A fresh herb that brightens and complements the rich flavors.
• 2 teaspoons Parsley (chopped): Adds color and a mild, fresh herbal touch.
• 16 oz. Ziti Pasta (uncooked): The perfect sturdy pasta shape for soaking up sauce and creamy layers.
• 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (freshly grated): Melts into a gooey, golden topping that makes this dish irresistible.

How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

Start by creaming together the softened cream cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, and parsley in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer. This combination becomes smooth and fluffy, ensuring your flavorful cheese layers will be silky and well-blended throughout the dish.

Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the pasta marinara or meat sauce, diced Italian tomatoes, cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, and water. Mixing these ingredients now will help all those savory and tangy flavors marry beautifully, setting the perfect sauce base to cook the pasta.

Step 3: Layer Sauce at the Bottom of the Slow Cooker

Add one-third of the sauce mixture to the slow cooker, creating a rich, flavorful foundation that prevents the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Add the First Layer of Pasta

Sprinkle half of the uncooked ziti pasta evenly over the sauce. The uncooked pasta will cook slowly in the sauce, absorbing all those incredible flavors while softening to perfection.

Step 5: Dollop the Cream Cheese Mixture

Carefully spoon dollops of the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta to create pockets of luscious flavor as the dish cooks.

Step 6: Repeat the Layers

Repeat, adding the next layer of pasta sauce, the remaining uncooked ziti, and more dollops of the cream cheese mixture. Layering like this builds that classic baked ziti texture: tender pasta, rich sauce, and creamy pockets.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Sauce

Finish by covering the top with the last third of the sauce, ensuring every bit of pasta is nestled beneath a hearty coating of tomato and sausage goodness.

Step 8: Add Mozzarella and Herbs on Top

Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the surface. Then, scatter basil and parsley for a vibrant, fresh garnish. This final touch ensures a bubbly, golden crust forms on top as it cooks.

Step 9: Cook and Stir Before Serving

Set your slow cooker to high and cook for 4 hours. When it’s done, give everything a good stir so the layers mingle perfectly. Serve it hot with your favorite sides for a truly comforting meal.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cream Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan can elevate the presentation and add lively bursts of flavor right before serving. A drizzle of good olive oil also adds a lovely richness and shine.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with crunchy garlic bread to soak up every bit of the sauce, and a crisp green salad to lighten the meal and add freshness. Roasted vegetables also complement this hearty dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve it in individual mini cocottes or ramekins, creating personal cheesy casseroles. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan on top in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or oven until just warmed through. Adding a splash of water or extra sauce before reheating helps keep the pasta moist and creamy instead of drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Ground beef is a good substitute if you prefer a milder flavor, but Italian sausage adds a wonderful spice and depth that’s signature to this recipe.

Do I need to precook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?

No need to precook the ziti — the pasta cooks slowly right in the sauce during the 4-hour slow cooker cycle, soaking up all that delicious flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the sausage and use a meatless marinara sauce. You could also add sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives to keep that savory punch.

How thick should the cream cheese be before mixing?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy blending and a smooth, creamy texture.

Is it possible to cook this on low instead of high?

Yes, but the cooking time will be longer — expect about 6 to 7 hours on low. Just make sure the pasta is tender before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Cream Cheese Recipe is one of those easy, hearty dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for busy days when you crave comfort food without the hassle, and it never disappoints at gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, this cheesy, saucy, sausage-filled pasta will become a favorite in your home too. So, get that slow cooker ready and enjoy every bite of this irresistible Italian classic!

Print