In our house, we call it ‘Lazy Day Ziti.’ It’s so good, no one would guess how effortless it is!

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 

• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional) 

Instructions 

1. Step 1: Cook the meat. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat. 

1. Step 2: Combine ingredients. In the slow cooker, combine the cooked meat, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. 

1. Step 3: Add pasta. Stir in the uncooked ziti pasta, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. 

1. Step 4: Top with ricotta. Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese across the top of the pasta mixture. 

1. Step 5: Cook. Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or until the pasta is tender. 

1. Step 6: Add cheese. During the last 20 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top. 

1. Step 7: Serve. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.